Course

Course Summary
Credit Type:
Course
ACE ID:
DAU-0218
Organization's ID:
BCF 331
Organization:
Defense Acquisition University
Location:
Classroom-based
Length:
5 days (31 hours)
Dates Offered:
Credit Recommendation & Competencies
Level Credits (SH) Subject
Upper-Division Baccalaureate 3 Business Administration, Management, or Information Technology
Description

Objective:

The course objective is to apply skills in managing, leading and reviewing each step of the five-step process to prepare and deliver quality cost estimates; participate in a continuing case study in the role of a senior cost estimator or supervisor to successfully guide a hypothetical cost team through a milestone review cost estimate. In addition to requiring students to employ cost estimating fundamentals, the case study involves making difficult but realistic judgement calls often faced by cost estimators in those positions. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, analytical decision making and leadership.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Define and apply the steps of the cost estimating process
  • Define the role of a supervisor for the cost organization
  • Identify how to select the most appropriate methodology for a cost estimate
  • Plan to advocate for and adhere to cost and software data reporting (CSDR) policy so actual costs are collected for programs
  • Draft CSDR plans that satisfy cost estimating needs
  • Learn how to collect contractor actual costs if CSDR data is not available
  • Understand how to correctly incorporate normalization into cost estimates
  • Perform and interpret statistical regressions
  • Use correct inputs and interpret results of a cost estimate simulation
  • Ensure work breakdown structures (WBS) are adequate for cost estimating
  • Prepare employees to understand key events in a program schedule and evaluate if the schedule is reasonable
  • Apply principles regarding contract burdening
  • Design and deliver a well-defined cost estimate presentation

General Topics:

  • Cost analysis
  • Cost estimating/simulation
  • Critical thinking
  • Analytical decision making
  • Cost estimate methodologies
  • Program schedule
  • Cost and software data reporting
  • Statistical regressions
  • Spreadsheet-based cost estimate simulation
Instruction & Assessment

Instructional Strategies:

  • Audio Visual Materials
  • Case Studies
  • Classroom Exercise
  • Discussion
  • Learner Presentations
  • Lectures
  • Practical Exercises

Methods of Assessment:

  • Case Studies
  • Examinations
  • Presentations

Minimum Passing Score:

80%
Supplemental Materials