Based on the cost overruns on the Big Dig and the extensive scholarly research on cost management, it appears that most large-scale projects are chronically underestimated. In responding to the following, think about the ethical and legal implications that may arise from serious cost overruns and how you would address these problems as a project manager.

1. Does it matter that projects are underestimated?

2. What are the implications for governments? For project sponsors? For citizens?

3. How can the risk of low cost estimates be prevented in large public projects?

4. What are some emerging areas of research that could assist in reducing the reality of consistent underestimation of large projects?