Evaluating Cost-Effectiveness

One kind of evaluation focuses on the cost-effectiveness of a project. While it is premature to try to justify the expense of a quality information project based on quantifiable results, it is feasible and useful to weigh the cost-effectiveness of different communication options.

For example, let's say you are trying to determine which of several strategies was most effective at conveying your message:

  • Your Web site.
  • Your mass media strategy (e.g., coverage in newspaper and magazine articles).
  • Direct mail of your printed report.

You could determine which strategy reached the most people given the cost.

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