Procurement evaluation & award · Working
Should-cost model
Also called: should cost
ELI5
An independent estimate of what a product or service ought reasonably to cost.
Used in conversation
“Procurement needs the basis for should-cost model before suppliers price the work.”
Pitch context
You will see “Should-cost model” in operating plans, procurement packs, supplier reviews and supply-chain reports when the discussion reaches procurement evaluation & award.
Why it matters: In procurement evaluation & award, a loose definition can change rights, obligations, approval, disclosure or enforceability.
Caution
Meaning, enforceability and required process vary by jurisdiction and agreement; this definition is not legal advice.
Sources & evidence · 3
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- U.S. Acquisition.gov — Federal Acquisition Regulation Part 15 — Contracting by NegotiationDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- UK Government — Groceries Supply Code of PracticeDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Productivity programmeSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16