Ep 138: From Scoping to Feasibility: How to nail cost estimation at every stage

In this episode of Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro, Hamish Guthrie (Managing Consultant – Mining) joins Dr Gregory Zhang (Senior Consultant – Geology) to explore the fundamentals of cost estimation across the mining study pipeline. Hamish shares practical insights from his more than 30 years in the industry, including the importance of understanding project scale and matching the level of effort to the study stage. If you're involved in study work, project evaluation, cost modelling or operational planning, this conversation will give you clear, practical guidance you can apply straight away. Key Timestamps 00:31 – What Is Cost Estimation? 00:56 – Cost Estimation Across Study Levels 01:10 – Data Sources for Cost Estimation 01:58 – Scoping Study Accuracy 02:32 – Pre-feasibility Study Accuracy 03:19 – Feasibility Study Expectations 04:23 – Basis of Estimate (BOE) 05:16 – Common Pitfalls 06:38 – Key Takeaway If you would like to contact Hamish and Greg: [email protected] 🎧 Listen on the go: Fresh Thinking is available on all major podcast platforms – subscribe to never miss an episode! 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more technical mining insights from our global consulting team. Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro is rapidly becoming the best mining podcast globally – you can find our podcasts on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and most other podcast platforms. Snowden Optiro Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting, and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors, and investors. We help mine developers advance their projects, mining companies improve their operations, and investors de-risk their investments by providing quality advice, training, and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves. 🌐 Explore more: https://snowdenoptiro.com/