kustannushyötytarkastelun

Kustannushyötytarkastelu, often abbreviated as KHT, is a Finnish term that translates to "cost-benefit analysis." It is a systematic process used to evaluate the desirability of a project or policy by comparing the total expected costs against the total expected benefits. The primary goal of a KHT is to determine whether the potential benefits of an action outweigh its costs, providing a rational basis for decision-making.

The process typically involves identifying all relevant costs and benefits, quantifying them in monetary terms as much as possible, and then comparing the present values of the benefits and costs. This often includes both direct and indirect costs and benefits, as well as tangible and intangible factors. For instance, when evaluating a public infrastructure project, KHT might consider construction costs, maintenance expenses, and potential economic growth as costs, while benefits could include improved transportation efficiency, reduced pollution, and enhanced public safety.

KHT is widely applied in various fields, including economics, public policy, environmental management, and business. It serves as a crucial tool for prioritizing investments, assessing the feasibility of new initiatives, and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently. While KHT provides a valuable framework for decision-making, it's important to acknowledge that quantifying all costs and benefits, especially intangible ones, can be challenging and may involve subjective estimations. Therefore, the results of a KHT should be interpreted with an understanding of its inherent limitations.