Kustannushyötykatsaus

Kustannushyötykatsaus, often translated as cost-benefit analysis (CBA), is an economic and management tool used to evaluate the desirability of a project or decision. It involves systematically comparing the total expected costs against the total expected benefits. The primary goal is to determine if the benefits of a proposed action outweigh its costs, and by how much.

The process typically begins by identifying all potential costs and benefits associated with the decision. Costs can be direct, such as money spent on materials or labor, or indirect, like time spent or environmental impact. Benefits are similarly categorized, encompassing financial gains, improved efficiency, enhanced safety, or social advantages.

Once identified, all costs and benefits are quantified, ideally in monetary terms. This can be challenging, especially for intangible benefits like improved public health or aesthetic value. Various methods exist to assign monetary values to these non-market items.

After quantification, the costs and benefits are compared. Common metrics include the net present value (NPV), benefit-cost ratio (BCR), and internal rate of return (IRR). A positive NPV, a BCR greater than 1, or an IRR exceeding the discount rate generally indicate that the project is financially viable and should be undertaken.

Kustannushyötykatsaus is widely applied in various fields, including public policy, infrastructure development, business investment decisions, and environmental management. It aids decision-makers in allocating resources efficiently and justifying their choices based on a rational assessment of potential outcomes. However, its effectiveness relies heavily on the accuracy of cost and benefit estimations and the appropriateness of the chosen valuation methods.