Cost-benefit analysis : financial and economic appraisal using spreadsheets

Table of Contents: 1. Introduction to cost-benefit analysis 2. Project appraisal. principles 3. Project appraisal. decision-rules 4. Private cost-benefit analysis. financial appraisal 5. Cost-benefit analysis and economic efficiency 6. The distribution of project net benefits 7. Consumer and producer surplus in cost-benefit analysis 8. Non-market valuation 9. Uncertainty, information and risk 10. Valuing traded and non-traded goods in cost-benefit analysis 11. Appraisal of the distribution of project benefits and costs 12. Economic impact analysis 13. Writing the cost-benefit analysis report

This book offering readers the perfect introduction to project, programme and policy appraisal using basic tools of financial and economic analysis. The key economic questions of any social cost-benefit analysis are: do the benefits of the project or policy exceed the costs, no matter how widely costs and benefits are spread, and irrespective of whether or not project impacts, such as environmental effects, are reflected in market prices. This book addresses these questions with an emphasis on putting the theory presented in the book into practice. This edition has several attractive features that is readers are encouraged to develop their own skills by applying the tools and techniques of cost-benefit analysis to case studies and examples, including an analysis of a project which is developed throughout the book. The book emphasizes the use of spreadsheets which are invaluable in providing a framework for the cost-benefit analysis. This book provides guidance for writing up a report which summarizes the analysis which has been undertaken. This book is an ideal text for a course on cost-benefit analysis where the emphasis is on practical application of principles and equipping students to conduct appraisals. It is also a useful handbook for professionals looking for a logical framework in which to undertake their cost-benefit analysis work.