Benefit-Cost Analysis Center

The core aim of the Benefit-Cost Analysis Center is to improve the understanding and use of benefit-cost analysis (BCA) as a decision-making tool. Our research and outreach is geared toward:

• Improving and standardizing benefit-cost analysis methodology
• Strengthening relationships between institutions that use it
• Disseminating information about its use and misuse
• Expanding its use when appropriate

This involves working with a variety of government agencies and academic professionals whose work involves benefit-cost analysis. We accomplish this through:

• Working with the Society for Benefit-Cost Analysis
• Convening with government benefit-cost analysts at the federal, state, and local levels
• Publishing academic papers on benefit-cost analysis methodology

News and Announcements

Learn more about the recent conferences supported by the Benefit-Cost Analysis Center:

• October 19-20, 2009
  Unleashing the Power of Social Benefit-Cost Analysis: Removing Barriers
  Funded by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

• October 20-21, 2009
  Advancing the Practice of Benefit-Cost Analysis: 2009 Annual Conference and Meeting of the Society for Benefit-Cost Analysis

Read an interview with Benefit-Cost Analysis Center Founder and Director, Richard O. Zerbe, Jr.:

• Balancing Costs and Benefits: An interview with Benefit-Cost Analysis Center founder Richard O. Zerbe, Jr.

To receive updates about our news and events, join our mailing list.

Find out more about what benefit-cost analysis is and draft papers on principles and standards for it.  You can also contact us at bcac@u.washington.edu or 206.616.4090.