2. The second approach, called zero-based budgeting, requires that each
line item of a budget be calculated anew. Staff members are told that any
item in the budget will be zero unless they can provide a full justification
for a new budget figure.
Obviously, some combination of these two approaches is desirable in the
budgeting process. It is a waste of time and effort to rely on zero-based
budgeting for programs already in place. On the other hand, implementing new
programs without a full cost estimate would be irresponsible on the part of
management. Costs should always be estimated on the high side. As the costs
of new programs and activities are considered, it should be remembered that
they will add to the central administrative costs. The simple addition of a
program will put added burden on the core staff, supervision, space, and
equipment.