Budget vs Actual

Budget vs actual is the bridge between preconstruction planning and operational cost control.

The Basic Model

• the approved estimate becomes the budget baseline
• actual costs are recorded over time
• Darwin compares the two to identify movement and risk

Why It Matters

This allows teams to see whether cost movement is being driven by:

• market shifts
• design changes
• scope growth
• execution inefficiency
• assumption mismatches

Best Practices

• baseline only reviewed and accepted estimates
• group budget and actuals in a consistent structure
• review variance regularly, not only at the end
• feed lessons back into modules and pricing practices