kustannushyötylaskelmasta

Kustannushyötylaskelma, often abbreviated as KHT, is a Finnish term translating to a cost-benefit analysis. It is a systematic process used to evaluate the total expected costs arising from the implementation of a project or decision against the total expected benefits. The goal of a KHT is to determine whether the anticipated benefits outweigh the anticipated costs, thereby guiding decision-making towards the most economically advantageous option.

This analysis is widely employed in various fields, including business, public policy, and environmental management. In a business context, it can be used to decide whether to invest in new equipment, launch a new product, or undertake a marketing campaign. In the public sector, it can inform decisions about infrastructure projects, healthcare initiatives, or environmental regulations.

The process typically involves identifying all relevant costs, both direct and indirect, tangible and intangible, and estimating their monetary value. Similarly, all anticipated benefits are identified and quantified monetarily. These costs and benefits are then compared, often over a specific time horizon. Various methods can be used to perform the calculation, including Net Present Value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), which account for the time value of money. A positive NPV or an IRR exceeding the required rate of return generally indicates that the project is economically viable. The KHT serves as a crucial tool for rational resource allocation and maximizing overall value.