Estimated At Completion (EAC) is a critical concept in project management, helping project managers predict the final cost of a project. It’s a vital metric for ensuring that a project stays on budget.
In this article, we’ll explain the EAC formula and provide a working calculator to make your calculations easier.
What Is EAC?
EAC stands for Estimated At Completion. It’s an estimate of the total cost of a project when it’s completed, based on the current performance and expenses. This calculation is particularly useful when a project is deviating from its initial budget, and you need to predict the final cost.
EAC Formula
The formula for calculating the Estimated At Completion (EAC) is:
EAC = BAC / (EV / AC)
Where:
- EAC: Estimated At Completion
- BAC: Budget at Completion (the initial budget for the project)
- EV: Earned Value (the value of work that has been completed)
- AC: Actual Cost (the total cost incurred up to the current date)
Using the EAC Calculator
To calculate the EAC using the calculator provided above, follow these steps:
- Enter the initial project budget (BAC) in the “Budget (BAC)” field.
- Input the Earned Value (EV), which represents the value of the work that has been completed so far.
- Enter the Actual Cost (AC), which is the total cost incurred up to the current date.
- Click the “Calculate” button.
The calculator will process the input values and display the Estimated At Completion (EAC) in the designated field. This EAC value will give you a better understanding of whether the project is likely to stay within the initial budget or if it’s trending over or under budget.
Why EAC Matters
EAC is a crucial metric for project managers for several reasons:
- Budget Management: It helps project managers proactively manage the budget and make necessary adjustments if the project is likely to exceed its budget.
- Forecasting: EAC provides a reliable forecast of the project’s final cost, allowing for better planning and resource allocation.
- Performance Evaluation: Project managers can use EAC to assess whether the project is on track and whether corrective actions are required.
- Risk Management: By calculating EAC, project managers can identify risks and uncertainties in the project’s cost and take steps to mitigate them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Estimated At Completion (EAC) is a critical tool for project managers to ensure projects stay within budget and are completed successfully. Use the provided calculator to simplify your EAC calculations and keep your projects on track.