Optimising Project Costs: Part 1 – Developing a Project Budget
This is the first microlearning in the Optimising Project Costs learning path. As the first part, you will learn to identify resources, apply cost estimation methods, and develop a structured project budget that ensures financial stability and accountability across the project lifecycle.
estimated duration
13-20 hours (Self-paced).
learning mode
100% Online
modality
Start anytime
Assessments
Total of $299.04 / year $708.0 58.0%
Save 408.96 / year
Monthly billing also available: $59 / month
Promo ends 31 May. Subscribe now to keep this annual price ongoing.
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Total of $499.08 / year $1440.0 65.0%
Save 940.92 / year
Monthly billing also available: $120 / month
Promo ends 31 May. Subscribe now to keep this annual price ongoing.
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Note: Industry-certified or partner courses are available separately and are not included in the standard subscription.
What You'll Learn?
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Identify resources and costs using a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS).
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Apply cost estimation techniques, including analogous, parametric, and three-point estimating.
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Develop a comprehensive project budget with contingency reserves.
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Use financial planning tools and software to monitor costs.
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Prepare a cost management plan that supports decision-making and accountability.
Additional Learning Benefits
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Courses like this one can contribute to university credit and industry certifications.
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Many ICT units align with industry-recognised certifications from global technology partners, such as Microsoft, Google, and other leading providers—offering clear pathways to international recognition.
Topics Covered
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Project Cost Management
Foundations and Objectives
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Work Breakdown Structure
Tasks Deliverables Resources
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Cost Estimation Methods
Expert Judgement Analogous Parametric Three-Point Bottom-Up
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Project Budget Development
Direct Indirect Variable Fixed Costs
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Financial Planning Tools
Project Management Software Spreadsheets Cost Management Plans
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Cost Control Techniques
EVM Variance Analysis Contingency Planning
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you'll be able to:
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Apply structured cost estimation techniques to project planning.
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Develop accurate budgets aligned with organisational requirements.
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Document a cost management plan to ensure financial control.
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Use financial tools to forecast and track project expenditures.
Learning Pathway
SSC Online provides a flexible learning journey designed to support your goals—whether you’re upskilling, pursuing formal qualifications, or preparing for university or industry certification.
Start Here
Essential / Premium Plan: Build your knowledge and skills with flexible, self-paced learning. Access up to 100 microlearnings across high-demand fields like business, IT, project management, and cyber security.
Complete the Learning Pathway
Microlearnings: Finish all microlearnings in this pathway to build practical skills and prepare for the accredited unit.
Go Further
Accredited Units (available via Professional Plan or pay-per-certification). Complete formal assessments to earn a Statement of Attainment for nationally recognized units of competency.
Unlock More
Full Qualifications: Stack your accredited units to progress toward a full nationally recognised qualification.
Your Future Pathways
After completing full qualifications or selected accredited units, you can::
- Gain credit transfer to Australian universities toward a bachelor's degree (selected units only).
- Sit for industry-recognised certification exams (e.g., CompTIA, Azure, AWS, and others) in selected ICT units only.
- Enhance your employability skills with industry-ready credentials.
*Credit transfer and certification opportunities are available for selected units only.
Certificates Included
Australian Accredited Certification (AQF Certificate)
(Available through formal qualification pathway - Professional Track)
Statement of Attainment for accredited unit
(Unlock when you add Accredited Certification or Professional Track)
SkillX Professional Certificate
(Essential & Premium)
Total of $299.04 / year $708.0 58.0%
Save 408.96 / year
Monthly billing also available: $59 / month
Promo ends 31 May. Subscribe now to keep this annual price ongoing.
Do you have a SkillX code? Apply below or during checkout.
Total of $499.08 / year $1440.0 65.0%
Save 940.92 / year
Monthly billing also available: $120 / month
Promo ends 31 May. Subscribe now to keep this annual price ongoing.
Do you have a SkillX code? Apply below or during checkout.
Note: Industry-certified or partner courses are available separately and are not included in the standard subscription.