Cost–Benefit Analysis and Other Assessment Techniques: Contrasts and Synergies

Cost–benefit analysis (CBA) is probably the most used assessment approach in public decisions concerning transport, but other exist. This chapter will briefly describe such other approaches and techniques, pointing out their perspective, characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, and clarifying their methodological differences with CBA. To do that, a sort of taxonomy is proposed. Then, some general issues related to appraisal (transparency, complexity, political acceptance, equity) will be commented in a comparative perspective. Finally, we will try to respond to the often-asked question: is it possible to “mix” techniques to obtain a better appraisal? Is it worthwhile, useless or even risky?