Which of the following is a benefit of Conceptual Estimating?

Conceptual estimating is crucial in the early stages of project development, as it helps stakeholders understand the overall vision, scope, and requirements of the project. One significant benefit of conceptual estimating is its role in communicating project scope and design requirements. This form of estimating allows the project team to articulate early on what the project entails, which aspects are critical, and how the design will impact the cost and schedule. By clarifying these elements, all parties can align their expectations and make informed decisions, ultimately leading to a smoother project execution.

In contrast, while establishing fixed costs can be a goal in later stages of project development, conceptual estimating is not about setting fixed costs but rather approximating costs based on available information. Focusing solely on quantities is limiting in the conceptual phase; this phase prioritizes understanding overall costs and design rather than detailed measurements. Additionally, while assumptions are important in any estimation process, in conceptual estimating, they often extend beyond just industry standards to include project-specific considerations, which makes option D less applicable. Thus, the central benefit of conceptual estimating lies in its ability to serve as a communicative tool for project scope and design requirements.