What does ETC stand for in project management?

In project management, ETC stands for "Estimate to Complete." This term refers specifically to the anticipated cost or resources needed to finish the remaining work on a project. It provides an estimate of how much more effort, time, or budget is required to complete the project successfully.

Understanding ETC is critical for project managers as it helps in forecasting project outcomes and enables better financial and resource planning. By calculating the estimate to complete, managers can compare it against the budget and timeline, ensuring that the project remains on track or can be adjusted accordingly if necessary.

While the term "Estimated Total Cost" is relevant in financial contexts, it does not accurately describe the focus of ETC, which is specifically on the remaining work and not the total costs of the project. "Estimated Time to Completion" might suggest a similar concept but emphasizes time rather than cost or resources. "Earned Time Contribution" is not a standard term used in project management, making it less relevant in this context.