Manual Cost Tracking
Manual cost tracking is a process where developers or teams manually record and monitor expenses related to software development projects, such as labor hours, infrastructure costs, and software licenses. It involves using spreadsheets, documents, or simple tools to log costs without automated systems, often requiring regular updates and calculations. This approach helps in budgeting, forecasting, and ensuring projects stay within financial constraints by providing visibility into spending.
Developers should learn manual cost tracking for small-scale projects, startups with limited budgets, or when automated tools are unavailable, as it offers a low-cost way to manage finances and avoid overspending. It is particularly useful in agile environments where costs need frequent review, or for freelancers tracking billable hours and expenses to ensure accurate invoicing and profitability.