What are time estimates made by project managers referred to as?

Time estimates made by project managers are often referred to as planning estimates. This terminology captures the essence of how project managers evaluate the time required for tasks, activities, or the entire project, considering the resources available, project scope, and potential risks. Planning estimates help in establishing a roadmap for the project, allowing for better scheduling, resource allocation, and overall management of timelines.

While "probable-case estimates" may sound like a valid choice due to their connotation of assessing time under typical conditions, they do not encompass the comprehensive nature of planning estimates. Planning estimates consider various scenarios, including best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios. Thus, the term is more inclusive of the methodologies typically used in project management, which often incorporate various estimation techniques and stakeholder inputs to create a robust timeline for project completion.