Abstract: A method and system estimates manufacturing costs for conventional and advanced materials and processes based on process-oriented approach. A computer system input display for selecting one or more designs and one or more design parameters. Cost models are based upon process-oriented manufacturing cost estimates for a plurality of designs utilizing materials and manufacturing processes. Software is programmed to receive selected designs and selected design parameters from the input display and pass the selected designs and design parameters to the cost models. An output display shows the manufacturing costs estimated by the cost models for the selected designs and design parameters. A manufacturing process flow simulation model highlights and quantifies the magnitude of the manufacturing process cost drivers. An architecture including a relational database is also disclosed, and input and editing modules can be utilized to modify the cost model equations or to provide input from other software applications.