Cost Estimation Template
Author
Crystal Ball
Summary
This model sums several line items to project total cost. The primary objective of this model is to
demonstrate how macros can be used to build templates. This lets spreadsheet users, who may have a
limited knowledge of Excel and Crystal Ball, run a basic simulation and view the simulation results.
Keywords: VBA, cost estimation, Developer Kit, project cost
Discussion
This simple example requires the user to input the minimum, most likely, and least likely values for each
item. Click on the "Risk Analysis" button to define assumptions and run the simulation, or open the Visual
Basic Editor to view the code. You can see the assumption details in the Excel notes for each cell.
Using Crystal Ball
Crystal Ball simulates the uncertainty in each cost line item and helps you to determine the probability of
over-running the original single-point estimate.
Using the Developer Kit
The Crystal Ball Developer Kit automates the basic set-up and running of the simulation at the single click of
a button. The Developer Kit contains the macro command and function libraries used to call Crystal Ball from
within a VBA program.
Copyright Information
Copyright © 2004, 2009, Oracle and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.
Oracle is a registered trademark of Oracle Corporation and/or its affiliates. Other names
may be trademarks of their respective owners.
Cost Estimation Template
Instructions:
1. Enter project cost items in table.
2. Input minimum, most likely, and maximum costs for each item.
3. Click on Risk Analysis button to simulate costs.
Note: Do not leave blank cells.
Risk Analysis
Project Cost Assumptions
Item Min Most Likely Max
Project Management £12.00 £13.00 £15.00
Hardware £20.00 £25.00 £35.00
Software £14.00 £15.00 £25.00
Misc £5.00 £10.00 £15.00
Project Cost Estimate £63.00
