Question 1

How does the S-curve calculation work in this template?

Accepted Answer

The SCurve sheet uses cumulative SUM formulas to build the classic S-shaped progress curve. You enter periodic planned values (baseline) and actual values as the project progresses. The Cumulative Planned column sums all planned values up to that period, and Cumulative Actual does the same for actuals. Because construction projects typically start slow, accelerate in the middle, and taper off at the end, the running total naturally forms an S shape when plotted over time.

Question 2

Can I track both cost and man-hours on the same S-curve?

Accepted Answer

The template has 13 columns on the SCurve sheet, giving you room to track multiple metrics. You can use separate columns for cost (dollars) and man-hours (or percent complete), then create additional chart series to overlay them. The cumulative formulas work the same way regardless of what unit you track — just replace the sample data with your own numbers.

Question 3

How do I read the variance between planned and actual?

Accepted Answer

The Variance column on the SCurve sheet subtracts Cumulative Actual from Cumulative Planned, giving you a period-by-period variance figure. A positive variance means you are ahead of plan; negative means behind. The chart visualizes this as the gap between the two curves — a widening gap signals schedule or cost issues that need attention. This is essentially simplified earned value management (EVM) in Excel.

Question 4

Does this template handle multiple projects or phases?

Accepted Answer

The template is designed for one project or phase per workbook. For multiple phases, you can duplicate the SCurve sheet within the same file and label each tab (e.g., "Phase 1 SCurve", "Phase 2 SCurve"). For portfolio-level reporting, keep separate workbooks per project and consolidate data manually or via external references.

Question 5

Is this suitable for non-construction S-curve applications?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. While designed for construction, the S-curve concept applies to any project with gradual ramp-up and ramp-down — software development burndown/burnup, marketing campaign spend, manufacturing production, or event planning budgets. The 973-row capacity handles projects lasting up to several years at weekly granularity.

Question 6

How do I present the S-curve in a client report?

Accepted Answer

The template's built-in chart is ready to copy into PowerPoint or Word. Select the chart, copy, and paste into your report — the data link remains live if you paste as a linked object. For monthly client meetings, update the Actual Value column with the latest figures and the curve, cumulative totals, and variance all refresh automatically.

Sheet	What it does
Start Here	Step-by-step setup guide that walks you through entering project data, understanding the S-curve logic, and customizing the template. Start here to get oriented.
SCurve	The core worksheet with 13 columns across 973 rows. Enter your baseline/planned values and actual values over time. Columns include: Period (date/week), Planned Value, Actual Value, Cumulative Planned, Cumulative Actual, Variance, and percentage deviation. The S-curve chart auto-plots from this data — showing the classic banana curve of planned vs. actual cumulative progress. Includes built-in formulas for cumulative sums and variance calculations.
About	Template credits, version info, and terms of use.

Construction Curve Excel Template

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