No. Choose a distribution that reflects when that particular cost is expected to be paid. An S-curve can suit a construction programme, but it is not a rule for every cost line.
An S-curve spreads expenditure slowly at first, more quickly through the middle and slowly again toward the end. That can represent some construction spending patterns. A fee paid entirely on appointment has a different timing assumption: one payment on one date.
Review template defaults line by line. The distribution changes the timing of the cash flow, which can affect funding requirements and finance costs even when the total cost stays the same.
- Go through the cost lines and ask, for each, when the money actually leaves.
- Use an S-curve only where its slow–fast–slow profile represents the expected expenditure.
- Use a single payment for a cost due on one date. Use an even spread only for a cost expected to be paid evenly across a period.
- Review the resulting cash flow against the programme and payment assumptions before relying on the finance result.