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The cost of a missed deadline

One missed deadline rarely stays one problem. How the costs add up, and how to estimate yours.

One missed deadline rarely stays one problem. How the costs add up, and how to estimate yours.

Short answer: A missed deadline costs rework, overtime, client goodwill and sometimes penalties. The biggest cost is usually the knock-on delay to other work.

Direct costs

  • Overtime to catch up.

  • Penalties or discounts.

  • Extra visits or deliveries.

Indirect costs

  • Other work pushed back.

  • Lost trust with clients.

  • Stress on the team.

Estimate yours

Pick the last three missed deadlines and add up the extra hours and costs they caused.

Frequently asked questions

How do we reduce missed deadlines?

Read our guide on reducing missed deadlines.

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