Final answer:
The statement that the design estimate is usually regarded as the budget estimate for control and planning purposes is true. The design estimate is crucial for the financial planning of product development and impacts the success of the engineering design process.
Step-by-step explanation:
For the contractor, the design estimate is true, usually regarded as the budget estimate, which will be used for control purposes as well as for planning construction financing. The design estimate is critical as it sets the framework for the budget for product development, and is used as a baseline for financial control and planning throughout the construction process. Drawings used to design a product form part of this estimate by providing detailed information that will determine resource allocations and cost calculations. The engineering design process is where these cost estimates are most critical, as a poor detailed design can ruin a good design concept, impacting the project's success. Therefore, it's essential to balance financial resources, creativity, and technical expertise to ensure a successful project outcome.