What is a cost-benefit analysis primarily used for?

A cost-benefit analysis serves as a systematic evaluation method that compares the costs and benefits of different alternatives, making it a vital tool in decision-making processes. This analysis is primarily used to facilitate informed choices by quantifying the economic value of proposed investments or actions.

The core function of a cost-benefit analysis is to lay out the anticipated benefits against the associated costs, allowing organizations to assess whether the expected outcomes justify the investment. By summarizing the potential returns and expenditures, it provides a clear picture of which option may yield the best financial outcome or value. This rationale is essential in various contexts, ranging from project management and policy-making to procurement and resource allocation.

The other options, while addressing relevant areas, do not encapsulate the primary purpose of a cost-benefit analysis. Evaluating supplier quality, assessing employee performance, or managing risk represents different analytical approaches that, while important, are fundamentally distinct from the specific aim of cost-benefit analysis.