What is the primary purpose of a preliminary estimate?

The primary purpose of a preliminary estimate is to provide a rough idea of the project's total cost. This estimate is typically prepared early in the project planning phase and serves as a tool for stakeholders to gauge whether the project is financially feasible before committing significant resources to detailed design and further planning.

It is based on available data, project scope, and historical cost information, enabling decision-makers to understand the budgetary implications and make informed choices about proceeding with the project. This initial estimate assists in determining if the project aligns with financial constraints and helps in obtaining funding or securing approvals, making it essential in the early stages of any construction project.

While other options touch on important aspects of project management, they do not align as closely with the primary objective of a preliminary estimate, which is fundamentally to assess overall cost implications rather than detailed breakdowns or compliance issues.