Bowling Green State University


	Office of Capital Planning

Rules of Thumb for Project Timelines

Timelines are pure speculation based on project cost (thresholds) and historical data. The durations shown can be significantly extended by unusual project complexity, delays in funding, delays in decision making, changes in the scope of the project, changes in State regulations/procedures, weather related delays, unforeseeable events, material and labor availability, and latent conditions (see Project Challenges).

Keep in mind that the timeline for every project is different.

STATE FUNDED PROJECTS

State funded projects require a substantial amount of time to complete. The State Funded Project Process requires that specific administrative procedures be followed throughout the life of the project. Therefore, Capital Planning and the Office of Design & Construction have less control over the project duration for State funded projects.

TOTAL PROJECT COST	RULE OF THUMB
Less than $250,000	Typically not less than 16 months
$250,000 to $500,000 (A/E fees over 25K)	Typically not less than 21 months

On State funded projects, timelines commence when a Project Manager has been assigned.

LOCALLY FUNDED PROJECTS

TOTAL PROJECT COST	RULE OF THUMB
Less than $50,000 (A/E fees under 25K)	Typically not less than 7 months
$50,000 to $250,000 (A/E fees under 25K)	Typically not less than 9.5 months
Up to $500,000 (A/E fees over 25K)	Typically not less than 15 months

On locally funded projects, timelines commence when a Project Manager from the Office of Design & Construction has been assigned, and project funding has been secured.