Our Approach To Project Cost Estimation

PROCESS  /   JAN 02, 2020

STEFAN MANCHEV  •   5 MIN READ

STEFAN MANCHEV

STUDIO MANAGER

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Cost estimation involves predicting the expenses associated with completing a project that has a specific scope.

 

 

In filmmaking production design, rarely does a client arrive with a clearly defined vision. There’s an idea. There’s a goal. Sometimes, there’s experience. But the true scope of what needs to be accomplished is often elusive.

 

Clients may not know exactly what they’re asking for, yet they want a price.

 

This isn’t a shortcoming on their part. Someone not skilled in every aspect of filmmaking design and production management can’t be expected to present a clear definition of everything a project will require.

 

Nonetheless, these crucial intangibles must be outlined. This is where we enter the Discovery Phase, initiating an honest conversation with the client. We talk, we ask, we explain. Gradually, we unpack the details and information without which a fair, realistic cost estimate cannot be provided.

 

Having worked with hundreds of clients, we’ve learned that creating an estimate is like a mini-project in itself. To move forward quickly and effectively, the process requires:

 

Gathering the Right People

 

Being Honest & Collaborative

 

Asking Rather Than Assuming

 

Let’s delve into what you, a potential client, can expect from us, what our team expects from you — and why this process relies on being fluid and transparent. By working together in this way, we can transform a nebulous idea into a concrete, executable plan that meets your creative and budgetary needs.

Gathering the Right People

 

In everything Agenti Cinema does, we rely on a collaborative approach that leverages the collective intelligence of our entire team.

 

One person can’t have all of the answers. Add to that the inherent distrust between buyer and seller, and first discussions of a cost estimate can create doubt and anxiety. This is why the Discovery Phase is extremely important.

 

To have an open discussion — which is the foundation of the Discovery Phase — everyone present must feel comfortable. And each person must offer unique value either by providing answers or by asking relevant questions.

 

To ensure we’re looking at every individual case from all sides, we bring the following Agenti Cinema experts into the Discovery process.

Project Manager – This is the person who is with you from the start and who ensures that conversations remain on track. With years of valuable experience and knows what needs to be discussed not just for the sake of cost estimation, but for the entirety of the project. Additionally, he/she coordinates all of the internal designers on Agenti Cinema side and has been chosen as the “best fit” for the project.

 

Creative Director – In the cost estimation phase, the Creative Director evaluates how creative choices affect project expenses. They use their artistic expertise to ensure that the project meets its creative goals while remaining financially viable.

 

Production Manager or Vendor Representative(s) – These highly experienced engineers are looped into the conversation to ensure all relevant technical questions are covered depending on availability.

How to Get Started with the Standard Plan

 

If you believe the Standard Plan is the right fit for your project, getting started is straightforward. Here are the steps to follow:

 

1. Initial Consultation

Contact us to discuss your project and express your interest in the Standard Plan. We will schedule an initial consultation to understand your needs and objectives.

 

2. Project Assessment

During the consultation, we will conduct a thorough assessment of your project requirements, scope, and timeline. This information will help us develop a comprehensive proposal.

 

3. Proposal and Agreement

Based on our assessment, we will provide you with a detailed proposal outlining the scope of work, estimated timeline, and weekly rate pricing. Once you approve the proposal, we will formalize the agreement and begin the pre-production process.

 

Choosing the right pricing plan is crucial for the success of your project. If you’re looking for a partner to work with consistently over time, our Standard Plan offers a solid starting point, but for those interested in building a long-term relationship and accessing additional benefits, we recommend checking out our Business Plan with a monthly subscription model. It’s designed to support ongoing projects and foster lasting partnerships in a convenient and efficient way.

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