Early-stage planning plays a critical role in the success of any construction project. Before detailed drawings are finalized, teams still need a realistic understanding of potential costs to guide design decisions and overall feasibility. This is where preliminary estimating becomes especially valuable.
By developing rough cost projections based on limited information, project owners and contractors can compare options, set realistic budgets, and identify potential risks early. These early estimates help avoid major design changes later and support smoother project development.
I’d be interested to hear how others use preliminary estimates—do you rely on them mainly for feasibility studies, or as a starting point for detailed budgeting? What challenges have you faced at this early stage?
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