Topic: How do you estimate time for a project?

I was asked to estimate the time needed for a web-project using something like a general rule, e.g. 2 pages per day (research included). UHH! I never did this before, because other people set the deadline. So I have a feeling for the duration of a certain project, but I can't break it down to single tasks like graphics, pages, research etc.

I know it depends on many factors, but does someone have a generale rule for this? How do YOU estimate your time needed? Or do you know some links where I can get more info?

It always depends upon ability. Some people are much faster than others. There is no set way to come up with iron clad, because time is variable from one person to the next.

You need to know how long it takes you to do a single page, a single logo. And from there you would have to come up with what you are worth an hour. Multiply one by the other, add twenty percent and that should be your figure.

That is pretty rough. But it is an estimate.

Yup. I estimate (1 page x total pages) + estimated # of meetings = total estimate. Warmage-I like your idea of adding 20%- gives the estimate a nice cushion. Its always better come in under the original estimate vs. over budget. Clients like that. Since I am just beginning, I don't charge for the creative process, as it usually takes me longer than an experienced designer to test out new ideas, put several versions together and show to client. . . so some aspects of my work I see as learning experience, rather than bang out the client for every hour I work.

-CRO8

Thanks for the input. Gives me something to think about. What I see is, that first of all I must write down a detailed list of the things I have to do. Guess I wasn't detailed enough yet. Then it will be easier to estimate the average time for one piece in one category (one page, one graphic, one meeting ...). And yes, I like the "+20%" too.

. . .and don't forget the proposal itself. What I do (when required) is give a few different options. For example, estimate for 1 page, estimte for 7 pages, 7 pages with shopping cart, . . . MissTerry, This forum is fantastic to bounce ideas around regarding proposals. Very experience freelancers in this asylum. I am still learning...I gues your always really learning.