Kustannushyötysuhdetta

Kustannushyötysuhde, often translated as cost-benefit ratio or cost-effectiveness, is an analytical tool used to evaluate the efficiency of a project, decision, or investment. It compares the total expected costs of an undertaking against its total expected benefits. The goal is to determine whether the advantages gained from a particular action outweigh the resources expended.

The calculation typically involves quantifying both costs and benefits in monetary terms. Costs can include direct expenses such as labor, materials, and capital, as well as indirect costs like time and opportunity loss. Benefits are similarly translated into financial values, encompassing increased revenue, cost savings, improved productivity, or enhanced quality of life.

A positive kustannushyötysuhde, where benefits exceed costs, suggests that the undertaking is economically viable and potentially worthwhile. Conversely, a negative ratio indicates that the costs outweigh the benefits, implying the action may not be the most efficient use of resources. This concept is widely applied in business, public policy, and project management to guide decision-making and resource allocation. It helps stakeholders make informed choices by providing a quantitative basis for comparison between different options.