Comparison between approximate estimation and scientific estimation
Approximate estimation
It is prepared by the person having little knowledge
of work.
It is not accurate, so there are every possibilities of
shortage of material than estimated.
Little utility of the ability and skill for the person.
There is every possibility of incompletion of work
and wastage of time and money.
Sometimes the work is to be held up due to under
estimation.
The quality of work is not maintained, as work is
completed in parts.
As the work is carries out in parts and large time
span. Cost is increasing.
Scientific estimation
It is based on actual analysis from drawing, plans &
other relative aspects & prepared by an expert of the
work.
There are little chances of shortage of material.
Great utility of abilities & skill of person.
There is little possibilities of incompletion of work in
time.
There is little difference in the estimated cost &
actual cost, so there are least chances of given up
the work.
The quality work is maintained as work is carried out
continuously.
As the work is completed in continuous flow and
time, so time & cost maintained same as estimated
cost.
Factors to be considered for Scientific Estimation
Following factors for preparing scientific estimation :

(a) Study of drawings and plans of the project Calculation of quantity of material required
(b) Calculation of Quantities of material require
(c) Detailed specification of material
(d) Prevailing condition of material in the market
(e) Knowledge of price catalogue of materials
(f) Comparison and selection of suitability of material
(g) Standard method of approach of site of work
(h) Conditions of site of work
(i) Availability of skilled manpower
(j) Prediction of the overhead charges
 Qualities of good estimation
•Imagination: Imagination is the ability to produce and simulate novel objects, peoples
and ideas in the mind without any immediate input of the senses. It is also described as
the forming of experiences in one's mind, which can be re-creations of past
experiences such as vivid memories with imagined changes, or they can be completely
invented and possibly fantastic scenes.
•Creativeness: Creativity is the ability to transcend the ordinary. It's the critical thinking
skill that allows you to "think outside the box" to come up with original solutions to
problems.
•Initiativeness: Initiative is all about taking charge. An initiative is the first in a series of
actions. Initiative can also mean a personal quality that shows a willingness to get
things done and take responsibility.
•Punctuality: The estimator is punctual in work to complete the work on time and with
satisfactory.
 Cont…
•Technical knowledge of the project: Technical knowledge is the most important
role for the whole project to know about rules and regulation, quality and quantity
of material, different laws and all aspects.
•Knowledge of the site: The estimator should know about the site condition as in the
form of location of site, transportation facility, atmospheric condition surrounding
the area, facilities to the workers, distance from residence etc.
 Estimating tools for scientific estimation
•Blue-print reading and interpretation of symbols and notifications.
•Knowledge of mathematics.
•Selection of quality & quantity of materials.
•Availability and timely supply of materials.
•Information about schedule of rates.
•Knowledge of the condition of the society and demand of the specific item.
•Knowledge about the political situation in the state and country.
•Prevailing laws about product.
•Requirement of proper skilled workers.
•Time-limit of the completion of the project.