{"id":31025,"date":"2022-07-29T10:24:02","date_gmt":"2022-07-29T10:24:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/?p=31025"},"modified":"2025-11-11T15:22:45","modified_gmt":"2025-11-11T15:22:45","slug":"project-estimation-techniques","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques","title":{"rendered":"6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>The six key project-estimating techniques almost every project manager uses are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Top-down estimating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bottom-up estimating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Analogous estimating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Three-point estimating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parametric estimating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expert judgment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>But how to choose the right one for your project?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ll find out in this article.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are project estimation techniques?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Project estimation techniques are methods used to estimate the time, effort, cost, and resources needed to complete a project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They help create realistic plans and budgets so projects can be completed on time and within scope.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although some project estimation techniques are more accurate than others, all of them can help you plan your project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What types of estimations are there?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Below are the six different types of estimations to consider for a project:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td>Cost estimations<\/td><td>Cost estimation involves calculating the total expected costs of the project.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Time estimations<\/td><td>Time estimation maps out the schedule and timeline for project tasks, milestones, and deliverables.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Scope estimations<\/td><td>Determining the amount of work and number of deliverables needed to bring the project from start to finish.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Resource estimations<\/td><td>Determining labor, equipment, and any other resources needed to execute the project.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Risk estimations<\/td><td>Evaluating potential issues that may derail the project.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Quality estimation<\/td><td>Setting standards for deliverables, processes, and outputs.&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Cost estimations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Estimating the cost of a project is one of the first (and most important) steps in project estimation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Costs include both direct (labor, software etc) as well as indirect costs (overhead, admin).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The type of cost estimate you create depends on which stage in the intake process you\u2019re at with the client.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider creating the following cost estimates for your next client project:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ballpark estimate&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Budget estimate&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Statement of work estimate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Each estimate gets more precise as more details emerge. It&#8217;s important to start estimating early and refine over time. Upfront budgeting prevents cost overruns down the road.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n        <div class=\"mb-8\">\n            <span class=\"block text-dark-purple-100 opacity-60 uppercase mb-2 text-sm font-bold\">Further Reading:<\/span>\n            <div class=\"border-t-[3px] border-b border-yellow-100 py-4 pb-2 lg:grid lg:gap-8\">\n                                    <div class=\"mb-4 lg:mb-2\">\n                        <a class=\"flex items-center hover:italic hover:text-dark-purple-80\" href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-cost-estimating\" title=\"Project Cost Estimation Guide: Methodologies &amp; Expert Tips\" aria-label=\"Project Cost Estimation Guide: Methodologies &amp; Expert Tips\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-full w-14 h-14 mr-4 object-cover\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/profit-estimating-112x57.jpg\" alt=\"Project Cost Estimation Guide: Methodologies &amp; Expert Tips\" width=\"56\" height=\"56\">\n                            <span class=\"font-semibold font-heading leading-snug\">Project Cost Estimation Guide: Methodologies &amp; Expert Tips<\/span>\n                        <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    \n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Time estimations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Accurately estimating the <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/create-project-timeline\">project timeline<\/a> is crucial for setting realistic expectations and keeping <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-profits\">projects profitable<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Creating reliable <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-time-estimation\">time estimates<\/a> requires breaking the project into manageable tasks and estimating the duration of each.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This can be best done by creating<a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/work-breakdown-structure\"> a Work Breakdown Structure<\/a> (WBS) and adding time estimates for each task.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"308\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image11-1.png\" alt=\"A screenshot of Toggl Track showing a work breakdown structure. \" class=\"wp-image-46649\" srcset=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image11-1.png 1024w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image11-1-300x90.png 300w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image11-1-768x231.png 768w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image11-1-746x224.png 746w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image11-1-112x34.png 112w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Or you can use historical project data to grab quick time estimates.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/support.toggl.com\/en\/articles\/2216727-summary-report\" target=\"_blank\">Summary Report<\/a> inside of <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/track\/\">Toggl Track<\/a> allows you to filter your project time entries by:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Client<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Project<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tasks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Perfect for getting an overview of how much time was spent on past projects and their tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Learning how to <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-time-estimation\">estimate time for a project<\/a> is an excellent skill and will be the ace up your sleeve for every one of your future projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Scope estimations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The scope of a project is the last of the big three estimations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Scope estimations help you predict all the work necessary to complete the project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s best to scope out a project during a project discovery. This helps you <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/requirements-gathering\">gather all project requirements<\/a> to create a more accurate <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/create-project-timeline\">project timeline<\/a> and better <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/how-to-create-a-project-budget\">manage&nbsp; the budget<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Scope is a project constraint that can quickly spiderweb out and affect everything around it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some people think of these first three points (cost, time, scope) as the \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/the-triple-constraints-of-project-management\">project management triangle<\/a>\u201d because if one side changes, the others do too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"902\" height=\"385\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image3-2.png\" alt=\"An illustration of the project management triangle.\" class=\"wp-image-46650\" srcset=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image3-2.png 902w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image3-2-300x128.png 300w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image3-2-768x328.png 768w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image3-2-746x318.png 746w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image3-2-112x48.png 112w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 902px) 100vw, 902px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The triangle on the left is a perfectly balanced project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The one on the right?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its scope got out of hand, so the project timeline got pushed back, and the project profits took a hit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking the time to estimate these three big constraints will ensure your triangle stays nice and even.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Resource estimations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Project resources can include labor, equipment, software, and materials needed to execute the work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your team is likely juggling multiple tasks and projects at the same time. So accurately estimating resources ensures their availability and time are respected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Resource estimation is the difference between team members so burnt out that they\u2019re asleep at their desks and team members with nothing to do.<\/p>\n\n\n        <div class=\"mb-8\">\n            <span class=\"block text-dark-purple-100 opacity-60 uppercase mb-2 text-sm font-bold\">Further Reading:<\/span>\n            <div class=\"border-t-[3px] border-b border-yellow-100 py-4 pb-2 lg:grid lg:gap-8\">\n                                    <div class=\"mb-4 lg:mb-2\">\n                        <a class=\"flex items-center hover:italic hover:text-dark-purple-80\" href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-resource-management\" title=\"What is Project Resource Management? [Comprehensive Guide]\" aria-label=\"What is Project Resource Management? [Comprehensive Guide]\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-full w-14 h-14 mr-4 object-cover\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/project-resource-management-112x67.jpg\" alt=\"What is Project Resource Management? [Comprehensive Guide]\" width=\"56\" height=\"56\">\n                            <span class=\"font-semibold font-heading leading-snug\">What is Project Resource Management? [Comprehensive Guide]<\/span>\n                        <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    \n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Risk estimations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Proactively identifying and planning for <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-risks\">project risks<\/a> is essential to minimize surprises. Risk refers to potential issues that may negatively impact the project budget, timeline, or scope if they occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by brainstorming risks across categories like budget, schedule, technology, resources, vendors, etc. Review risks from past projects for ideas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Software development in the cloud? Assume that there could be a server crash.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Factor in risks from the planning stage \u2014 don\u2019t wait for them to show their ugly face when the client mentions them first. Or worse, when they suddenly strike.<\/p>\n\n\n        <div class=\"mb-8\">\n            <span class=\"block text-dark-purple-100 opacity-60 uppercase mb-2 text-sm font-bold\">Further Reading:<\/span>\n            <div class=\"border-t-[3px] border-b border-yellow-100 py-4 pb-2 lg:grid lg:gap-8\">\n                                    <div class=\"mb-4 lg:mb-2\">\n                        <a class=\"flex items-center hover:italic hover:text-dark-purple-80\" href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/how-to-do-project-risk-management\" title=\"How to Do Project Risk Management: A Manager&#8217;s Survival Guide\" aria-label=\"How to Do Project Risk Management: A Manager&#8217;s Survival Guide\">\n                            <img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-full w-14 h-14 mr-4 object-cover\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/blog-image-2-112x68.jpeg\" alt=\"How to Do Project Risk Management: A Manager&#8217;s Survival Guide\" width=\"56\" height=\"56\">\n                            <span class=\"font-semibold font-heading leading-snug\">How to Do Project Risk Management: A Manager&#8217;s Survival Guide<\/span>\n                        <\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n                            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    \n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Quality estimations<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Defining quality expectations is crucial so projects meet stakeholder needs and avoid unnecessary rework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start by identifying applicable quality standards, requirements, and success criteria based on client needs, industry benchmarks, and best practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Estimate the effort required to meet quality specifications. Factor in needs like staff training, testing, inspections, and process controls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The purpose of quality estimations is to figure out project standards and requirements and how to achieve them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you estimate clear quality goals, you make it easier to avoid mistakes and rework. This saves time and money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Project estimation techniques<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a wealth of proven project estimation techniques, but here are the ones we think will be most helpful to you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Analogous estimation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Top-down estimation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bottom-up estimation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Parametric estimating<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Three-point estimation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Expert judgment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image4-1-1024x675.jpg\" alt=\"A graph outlining the six key project estimation techniques.\" class=\"wp-image-46651\" srcset=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image4-1-1024x675.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image4-1-300x198.jpg 300w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image4-1-768x506.jpg 768w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image4-1-613x404.jpg 613w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image4-1-1152x760.jpg 1152w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image4-1-1222x806.jpg 1222w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image4-1-112x74.jpg 112w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image4-1.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Analogous estimation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Analogous estimating is a simple way to gain an estimate of the cost of something.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You look at similar projects you\u2019ve completed before and use them as a reference for your estimations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The issue with analogous estimates is that they tend to be slightly inaccurate.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They assume that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You have (accurate) historical data to reference<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>There are no differences between projects<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Analogous estimating works best when you can compare with similar past projects, and you need a quick and general idea of the project\u2019s time and cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s most useful in the early stages of <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/starter-guide-project-planning\">project planning<\/a>, especially when you don\u2019t have detailed project information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re using <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/track\/\">Toggl Track<\/a>, you can easily access the data of past projects within the <a href=\"https:\/\/support.toggl.com\/en\/articles\/3167701-project-dashboard\" target=\"_blank\">Project Dashboard<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"257\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image6-2.png\" alt=\"A screenshot of the Project Dashboard in Toggl Track.\" class=\"wp-image-46652\" srcset=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image6-2.png 1024w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image6-2-300x75.png 300w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image6-2-768x193.png 768w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image6-2-746x187.png 746w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image6-2-112x28.png 112w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This will show you what time and costs went into each project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Top-down estimation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Top-down estimating looks at the high-level project scope and budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It avoids digging into the nitty-gritty of the work and only helps create a ballpark estimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The client\u2019s budget and timeline should be the source for the initial estimations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is your job to take their numbers and divide them up so that you know how much money to spend on each task or phase of the project and how long it will take.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is a form of analogous estimating. Existing knowledge of similar projects is used in the estimation process to produce a ballpark figure for the total cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But it\u2019s a solid estimation technique if you have access to similar data from previous projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The pros of the top-down method:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Fast and cheap<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Requires little initial effort<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pretty accurate if historical data is available<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Cons include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Low accuracy if no historical data is present<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can be easy to miss critical components and complexities with a top-down approach.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Top Tip:<\/strong> 100% accuracy is not worth your time at the initial stages of client contact. Giving them a ballpark estimate is the best approach \u2014 unless you know they\u2019re serious about working with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Completing a project for the first time? You will have to rely on your knowledge and experience of similar work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can use historical averages once you\u2019ve completed enough of a particular type of project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Bottom-up estimation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Bottom-up estimating is the most accurate project estimation technique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bottom-up estimating considers the time, cost, and effort for each task within the project. It then adds it up to create an estimate for the entire project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This means it can be a super-accurate estimation technique. You need to have completed a thorough <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/work-breakdown-structure\">Work Breakdown Structure<\/a> (WBS) for the project and have access to historical data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How does a WBS work?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It helps you break down a project into its tasks, which are then estimated separately and added to calculate the total project cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1010\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image1-3.png\" alt=\"A sreenshot of a detailed Work Breakdown Structure.\" class=\"wp-image-46653\" srcset=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image1-3.png 1010w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image1-3-296x300.png 296w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image1-3-768x779.png 768w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image1-3-398x404.png 398w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image1-3-750x760.png 750w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image1-3-795x806.png 795w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image1-3-110x112.png 110w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1010px) 100vw, 1010px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s our <a href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/spreadsheets\/d\/1sEvWPo1hpklU_OlmbAPj3qIHvu_2v_Tjgb15fh8AVl4\/copy\" target=\"_blank\">free WBS template<\/a> that you can use and customize to create better estimates.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019ve filled out a WBS, you can use Toggl Track to triple-check your estimations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pros of bottom-up estimating:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Calculating from a micro-level boosts accuracy enormously<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduces risk due to taking in the small details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flexible for a variety of tasks (different tasks take different amounts of time and resources)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>What are the cons of bottom-up estimating?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Calculating can be time-consuming and slow-moving without the right tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But with Toggl Track, you can easily visualize a breakdown of different tasks within a project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"343\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image7-2.png\" alt=\"A screenshot of Toggl Track showing a task breakdown.\" class=\"wp-image-46654\" srcset=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image7-2.png 1024w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image7-2-300x100.png 300w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image7-2-768x257.png 768w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image7-2-746x250.png 746w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image7-2-112x38.png 112w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>That way, you can get clear and insightful data about the time and cost of your individual tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Parametric estimating<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Parametric estimating uses mathematical equations to make estimates.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It relies on specific data, such as past costs or time needed for similar tasks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The pros of parametric estimating are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Accuracy<\/strong>: If you have reliable data, this method can be very accurate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Efficiency:<\/strong> Once the model is set up, it can be a quick way to estimate.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The cons of parametric estimating are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Data dependence:<\/strong> With parametric estimating, you need detailed, relevant data from past projects. Or the estimates may be off.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Complexity:<\/strong> It&#8217;s quite complicated to set up equations and models. It may need expertise.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Parametric estimating is best for repeated, similar tasks where past data can guide the estimates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As shown above, you can easily access historical project data in Toggl Track to make your estimates more accurate.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Three-point estimation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Three-point estimation combines the best-case, worst-case, and most likely outcome scenarios. This creates an accurate, flexible estimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This technique is useful when the client asks for a more detailed cost estimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pros of the three-point technique include the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>High accuracy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A hearty dose of realism<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The main con to three-point estimating is the effort required to do it. It\u2019s a pretty labor-intensive process when done properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So when is it best to use it?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The best time is when you\u2019ve completed one (or preferably more) projects using <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/\">time tracking software<\/a>. That way, you have a wealth of data to measure your new project against, so you\u2019re not starting from scratch every time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two main ways to calculate it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Triangular distribution<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beta distribution<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The first treats every scenario equally likely, and the second puts more weight on the most likely scenario.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Triangular is best if you\u2019re working with less data and want a quick calculation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beta is the best overall and the most accurate as long as you have enough data to figure out the most likely outcome of your project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you view the graphs, the triangular calculation is typically triangle-shaped (who would\u2019ve guessed?) and the beta is more bell-shaped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"517\" height=\"143\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image10-3.png\" alt=\"A graph illustrating the triangular and beta distributions when conducting a three-point estimation.\" class=\"wp-image-46655\" srcset=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image10-3.png 517w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image10-3-300x83.png 300w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image10-3-112x31.png 112w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 517px) 100vw, 517px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.riskamp.com\/beta-pert#:~:text=The%20PERT%20distribution%20is%20a,the%20normal%20or%20lognormal%20distributions.\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Source<\/em><\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>To work out the triangular calculation, you need the optimistic, pessimistic, and most likely outcomes. Combine them, and divide them by three.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s say you estimate a project to take:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>150 hours (optimistic)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>250 hours (pessimistic)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>165 hours (most likely)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Your triangular project estimate will be \u200b\u200b188.33 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beta is more difficult, typically adding four times the weight to the more likely outcome versus the best and worst.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So using the data from the example above, you would end up with an estimate of 176.67 hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out this <a href=\"https:\/\/project-management.info\/three-point-estimation-calculator-triangular-pert-beta-distribution\/\" target=\"_blank\">Three-Point Estimation Calculator<\/a> if you want to play around with the numbers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, that calculator is useless if you don\u2019t know what numbers to plug in.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Use Toggl Track to view past project data on the <a href=\"https:\/\/support.toggl.com\/en\/articles\/3167701-project-dashboard\" target=\"_blank\">Project Dashboard<\/a> to get a quick overview of how long similar projects have taken.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Optimistic outcome \u2013 look at the length of time for projects that went exactly to plan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pessimistic outcome \u2013 look at the length of time for projects that didn\u2019t go to plan.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Most likely outcome \u2013 look at the length of time for projects that mainly went to plan<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"840\" height=\"198\" src=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image9.png\" alt=\"A screenshot of Toggl Track showing past project data in the Project Dashboard.\" class=\"wp-image-46656\" srcset=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image9.png 840w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image9-300x71.png 300w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image9-768x181.png 768w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image9-746x176.png 746w, https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/image9-112x26.png 112w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 840px) 100vw, 840px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Expert judgment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Tapping into your team\u2019s expertise can provide valuable insights for estimating project timelines, costs, and resources. Team members who have worked on similar past projects bring crucial experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Have team members draw on their knowledge to independently estimate project components they\u2019ll be working on. Compare estimates and discuss assumptions and variances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Guidelines for team judgment estimating:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Let team members estimate work they\u2019ll be directly involved in<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Have them document assumptions to justify estimates<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compile team perspectives to balance biases and blind spots<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Combine with data from past projects for increased accuracy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Capture lessons learned and data over time so less judgment is required<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why are project estimates important?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Project estimates are important because they help you figure out how much time, money, and people you need for a project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Without them, you&#8217;d be guessing and might run out of what you need.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Estimates make sure you&#8217;re prepared and keep the project on track. They&#8217;re a roadmap that helps everyone know what to do and when so things go smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Who estimates projects?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Generally, it\u2019s the project lead who is responsible for estimating the different aspects of each project.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But it is up to the whole project team and any experts to help create and refine the project estimates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The more people that know about it, the more realistic the estimations will be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But this will depend on what type of estimation you\u2019re doing and on the size of your business.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Is it a quick ballpark estimate? That\u2019s the responsibility of the project manager. Working on a budget or statement of work estimate? Get the team involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We recommend checking out our <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-cost-estimating\">project cost estimation<\/a> guide to learn more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>When should estimates take place?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The project estimation process depends on your project intake process. And how detailed you get with your initial project estimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You should avoid creating detailed estimates (bottom-up) during the initial stages of the project. This is particularly true if you haven\u2019t gathered all the <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/requirements-gathering\">project requirements<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Define the overall <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/how-to-create-a-project-budget\">project budget<\/a> and create different types of estimates before you sign off on a <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/statement-of-work\">statement of work<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ballpark estimate&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Budget estimate&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Statement of work estimate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Again, it\u2019s worth checking out our <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-cost-estimating\">project cost estimation<\/a> guide to learn more about the different types of estimates you can create.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s also worth pointing out that your estimation process will depend on your <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-management-for-beginners\">project management<\/a> approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/agile-planning\">Agile projects<\/a> take a flexible approach to planning. Most Agile frameworks divide projects into smaller tasks or iterations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this case, estimates would be done at the beginning and then again during each phase\/sprint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Now over to you<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>By looking closely at the most common project estimation techniques, you now know which one to choose when.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This way, you\u2019ll create more accurate estimates for each project you have.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But if you want to maximize your estimating accuracy, a tool like Toggl Track is what you need.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/track\/demo-request\/\">Sign up for a free Toggl Track account<\/a> to create more accurate estimates much easier.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover effective project estimation techniques for better planning and accuracy. Deliver projects on time and within budget.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":601,"featured_media":31171,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[851],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-31025","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-project-management"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Discover effective project estimation techniques for better planning and accuracy. Deliver projects on time and within budget.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Discover effective project estimation techniques for better planning and accuracy. Deliver projects on time and within budget.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Toggl Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Toggl\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2022-07-29T10:24:02+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-11-11T15:22:45+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blog-Header-PMs-Handbook_Blog-Header-1640x982-2.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1537\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"The Toggl Team\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@toggl\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@toggl\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"The Toggl Team\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"13 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"The Toggl Team\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a9040caede2fbdfe014c9167138344c\"},\"headline\":\"6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-07-29T10:24:02+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-11-11T15:22:45+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques\"},\"wordCount\":2544,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blog-Header-PMs-Handbook_Blog-Header-1640x982-2.png\",\"articleSection\":[\"Project Management\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques\",\"name\":\"6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blog-Header-PMs-Handbook_Blog-Header-1640x982-2.png\",\"datePublished\":\"2022-07-29T10:24:02+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-11-11T15:22:45+00:00\",\"description\":\"Discover effective project estimation techniques for better planning and accuracy. Deliver projects on time and within budget.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blog-Header-PMs-Handbook_Blog-Header-1640x982-2.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blog-Header-PMs-Handbook_Blog-Header-1640x982-2.png\",\"width\":2560,\"height\":1537,\"caption\":\"Illustration of a man lying down reading a book titled \\\"PM Hando\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/\",\"name\":\"Toggl Blog\",\"description\":\"Everything works much better with Toggl\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Toggl\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/toggl-logo.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/toggl-logo.png\",\"width\":814,\"height\":814,\"caption\":\"Toggl\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Toggl\/\",\"https:\/\/x.com\/toggl\",\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/usetoggl\/\",\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/toggl\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a9040caede2fbdfe014c9167138344c\",\"name\":\"The Toggl Team\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9ad5698e745feb632df97dde968b03dd475b7153e8390d89fce9fb3f61b30b64?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9ad5698e745feb632df97dde968b03dd475b7153e8390d89fce9fb3f61b30b64?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9ad5698e745feb632df97dde968b03dd475b7153e8390d89fce9fb3f61b30b64?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"The Toggl Team\"},\"description\":\"Work tools to elevate your productivity \u2013 apps for incredibly simple time tracking and effective project planning.\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/author\/the-toggl-team\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates","description":"Discover effective project estimation techniques for better planning and accuracy. Deliver projects on time and within budget.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates","og_description":"Discover effective project estimation techniques for better planning and accuracy. Deliver projects on time and within budget.","og_url":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques","og_site_name":"Toggl Blog","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Toggl\/","article_published_time":"2022-07-29T10:24:02+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-11-11T15:22:45+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2560,"height":1537,"url":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blog-Header-PMs-Handbook_Blog-Header-1640x982-2.png","type":"image\/png"}],"author":"The Toggl Team","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@toggl","twitter_site":"@toggl","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"The Toggl Team","Est. reading time":"13 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques"},"author":{"name":"The Toggl Team","@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a9040caede2fbdfe014c9167138344c"},"headline":"6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates","datePublished":"2022-07-29T10:24:02+00:00","dateModified":"2025-11-11T15:22:45+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques"},"wordCount":2544,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blog-Header-PMs-Handbook_Blog-Header-1640x982-2.png","articleSection":["Project Management"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques","url":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques","name":"6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blog-Header-PMs-Handbook_Blog-Header-1640x982-2.png","datePublished":"2022-07-29T10:24:02+00:00","dateModified":"2025-11-11T15:22:45+00:00","description":"Discover effective project estimation techniques for better planning and accuracy. Deliver projects on time and within budget.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blog-Header-PMs-Handbook_Blog-Header-1640x982-2.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Blog-Header-PMs-Handbook_Blog-Header-1640x982-2.png","width":2560,"height":1537,"caption":"Illustration of a man lying down reading a book titled \"PM Hando"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/project-estimation-techniques#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"6 Project Estimation Techniques For Accurate Estimates"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/","name":"Toggl Blog","description":"Everything works much better with Toggl","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"Toggl","url":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/toggl-logo.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/toggl-logo.png","width":814,"height":814,"caption":"Toggl"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Toggl\/","https:\/\/x.com\/toggl","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/usetoggl\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/toggl"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a9040caede2fbdfe014c9167138344c","name":"The Toggl Team","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9ad5698e745feb632df97dde968b03dd475b7153e8390d89fce9fb3f61b30b64?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9ad5698e745feb632df97dde968b03dd475b7153e8390d89fce9fb3f61b30b64?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9ad5698e745feb632df97dde968b03dd475b7153e8390d89fce9fb3f61b30b64?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"The Toggl Team"},"description":"Work tools to elevate your productivity \u2013 apps for incredibly simple time tracking and effective project planning.","url":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/author\/the-toggl-team"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31025","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/601"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=31025"}],"version-history":[{"count":46,"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31025\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":57266,"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31025\/revisions\/57266"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/31171"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=31025"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=31025"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/toggl.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=31025"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}