What term describes budgeting that estimates costs without looking at historical data?

The term that describes budgeting which estimates costs without referring to historical data is known as "zero-based budgeting." This method requires each budgeting period to start from a "zero base," where every function within an organization is analyzed for its needs and costs, as opposed to simply adjusting previous budgets based on what was spent in the past.

Zero-based budgeting encourages meticulous examination of all expenses, leading to better resource allocation based on current needs rather than historical spending patterns. This approach can promote cost reduction and strategic prioritization as every expense must be justified anew.

In contrast, options like historical trend budgeting typically rely on past data to forecast future financial needs, the operating budget focuses on the projected income and expenses for a set period, and the reserve budget is concerned with setting aside funds for future capital expenditures or emergencies, but none of these strategies initiate with a "zero base."