What is the Estimate to Complete (ETC)?

The Estimate to Complete (ETC) is a crucial metric in project management, particularly in the context of cost control and forecasting. It represents the anticipated cost required to finish all remaining work on a project. This estimate is particularly valuable during the execution phase of a project, as it helps project managers assess whether the project is likely to stay within the budget and identify any necessary adjustments to resources or scheduling.

By calculating the ETC, project managers can make informed decisions on how to allocate funds and manage project risks, allowing greater visibility into the project's financial health as work progresses. This metric is not only essential for managing costs but also aids in communicating financial expectations to stakeholders.

Additionally, while other options touch upon aspects of project management, they do not accurately define what ETC represents. For example, the total cost of the project to date refers to the cumulative spending rather than future costs. The expected timeline for project completion relates to scheduling rather than costs. Budget variance focuses on the difference between what was budgeted and what is actually spent, which is a separate concept from estimating future costs required to complete the project.