Estimate Hours Used Report
Compare estimated labor hours to actual hours to evaluate estimating accuracy.
Accessing the Report
Reports > General > Estimate Hours Used
Key Metrics
| Metric | Description |
|---|---|
| Project | Project name |
| Estimated Hours | Hours in estimate |
| Actual Hours | Hours logged |
| Variance | Actual - Estimated |
| Variance % | Percentage over/under |
Available Filters
| Filter | Description |
|---|---|
| Date Range | Project date filter |
| Division | Business unit |
| Opportunity Type | Project category |
| Project Manager | Filter by PM |
Understanding Variance
Positive Variance (Over Estimate)
Actual > Estimated = Over budget
Reasons:
- Underestimated scope
- Unforeseen conditions
- Efficiency issues
- Scope creep
Negative Variance (Under Estimate)
Actual < Estimated = Under budget
Reasons:
- Conservative estimate
- Improved efficiency
- Scope reduction
- Incomplete tracking
Variance Percentage
Variance % = ((Actual - Estimated) ÷ Estimated) × 100
Analysis by Category
By Project Type
Compare accuracy across types:
- Some types harder to estimate
- Adjust markup accordingly
- Improve estimating methods
By Estimator
If tracked:
- Identify training needs
- Calibrate individuals
- Share best practices
By Size Range
Small vs. large projects:
- May have different accuracy
- Adjust approach by size
- Set appropriate contingency
Improving Estimates
Track Patterns
Look for consistent issues:
- Always over on specific types
- Certain phases underestimated
- External factors
Adjust Factors
Based on historical data:
- Increase hours for problem areas
- Add contingency factors
- Update labor rates
Feedback Loop
Share results with estimators:
- Show variance data
- Discuss causes
- Implement improvements
Benchmarks
| Variance Range | Rating |
|---|---|
| -5% to +5% | Excellent |
| -10% to +10% | Good |
| -15% to +15% | Acceptable |
| Beyond ±15% | Needs improvement |
Export Options
Click Export CSV to download:
- Variance data
- For estimating calibration
- Historical tracking
Tips
- Review completed projects only
- Compare similar project types
- Investigate large variances
- Update estimates from learnings
Related Reports
- Labor by Type - Detailed breakdown
- Cost Controls - Budget tracking
- Project Completion - Final results