PCEC – Project Cost Estimating Capability
The Project Cost Estimating Capability (PCEC) is the primary NASA-sponsored parametric cost tool for spacecraft estimates. Developed and maintained by NASA beginning in late 2013 as a successor to NAFCOM, PCEC provides a detailed library of estimating methodologies and a transparent framework for developing project cost estimates. Its objective is to focus on data collection, analysis, and methodology development in a modular, transparent, and secure manner. In this way, PCEC enables the entire NASA estimating community to have ownership and add value to an agency-wide capability.
The PCEC Library contains the most current NASA cost estimating relationships (CERs) across a wide variety of work breakdown structure (WBS) elements. These CERs, separated between the Robotic Spacecraft (Robotic SC) and Crewed & Space Transportation Systems (CASTS) models, allow users to model different types of systems under a single integrated tool. Supporting documentation and CER statistics provide further insight into the data for analysts and decision makers.
The PCEC Interface provides a framework for analysts and estimators to build project cost estimates that are transparent and defensible. By using elements directly from the PCEC Library, estimators can reduce redundant exercises and improve the credibility of their estimates. The Interface currently functions as a Microsoft Excel Add-in and provides many features, including, but not limited to, phasing and inflation tools, linking to other NASA cost models, and support for a variety of third-party simulation software packages such as @Risk, Crystal Ball, and Argo to conduct uncertainty analysis.
PCEC is free and available to the general public via the NASA Software Catalog by searching for PCEC or using the direct link below. Please complete the online application, and someone from the NASA Software Release Authority will process your application and send a software usage agreement for you to sign. Upon full approval, you will receive access to download the software from the software repository. NASA civil servants and contractors can access PCEC through the Model Portal of the ONCE Database using the link below.
PCEC Access Request: NASA Software Catalog
PCEC for NASA Users: ONCE Database
MSFC POC: Nathan Snyder; nathan.j.snyder@nasa.gov
PCEC Technical Support: MSFC-PCEC@mail.nasa.gov
PCEC Overview: PDF