Although budgetary estimate and budget are both economic forecasts of engineering projects, there are significant differences in some aspects. This paper will deeply discuss the differences between budgetary estimate and budget in function, compilation basis and content, so as to help readers better understand these two forecasting methods.

Different functions

The budget estimate mainly appears in the preliminary design stage and is an investment approval document for countries and regions. After examination and approval, it becomes the basis for compiling the fixed assets plan and the criterion for controlling the investment of construction projects. In contrast, the budget is prepared in the construction drawing design stage, which represents the price of building products and is the pre-tender estimate of the project price.

Different compilation basis

The budget estimate is compiled according to the budget estimate quota or budget estimate index, and the project content is relatively simplified and general. The budget is based on budget quota and comprehensive budget quota, and the project content is more detailed and important.

Different writing contents

The budget estimate should include all the contents of the project construction, including all the expenses required from the beginning of preparation to the completion acceptance and delivery. In contrast, the budget generally does not compile the general budget, but only the unit project budget and comprehensive budget, excluding the expenses of the preparatory stage, such as survey, land acquisition, training of production personnel, etc.