What is a Cost-Benefit Analysis?

A cost-benefit analysis (CBA) is a technique used to compare the expected financial costs and benefits of two or more options. The CBA can be used to decide which option is best to pursue based on an evaluation of the costs and benefits associated with each option.

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A cost-benefit analysis (CBA) is a technique used to compare the expected financial costs and benefits of two or more options. The CBA can be used to decide which option is best to pursue based on an evaluation of the costs and benefits associated with each option.

In general, the goal of a CBA is to identify the option with the highest ratio of benefits to costs. However, other factors may also be considered in the decision-making process, such as risk and uncertainty.

Benefits and costs can be quantifiable or non-quantifiable. Quantifiable benefits and costs can be expressed in monetary terms. In contrast, non-quantifiable benefits and costs may be more difficult to express in numerical terms.

The time frame over which the benefits and costs will be realized is also an important consideration in a CBA. For example, if one option has upfront costs that are higher than the upfront costs of another option, but the first option is expected to generate greater benefits over the long term, then the first option may be the better choice.

There are several ways to conduct a CBA, and the approach used will depend on the specific situation. In some cases, a formal CBA may not be necessary or practical. For example, if there are only two options under consideration and the benefits and costs of each option are clear, a CBA may not be needed.

When conducting a CBA, it is important to use realistic assumptions and be as objective as possible. The results of a CBA can be sensitive to the assumptions used, so it is important to make sure that the assumptions are reasonable.

Finally, it is important to remember that a CBA is only one tool that can be used in the decision-making process. Other factors, such as risk and uncertainty, may also need to be considered. Ultimately, the decision about which option to pursue should be made based on a comprehensive evaluation of all relevant factors.

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