Chapter 7: Presentation of Results

7.1 Chapter 7 outlines how to present appraisal results.

7.2 The role of appraisal and evaluation is to provide objective evidence and analysis that feeds information into the design, scrutiny and approval processes that support government decision making. Accordingly appraisal results should be presented transparently to show clearly the social value of alternative options in a consistent way.

7.3 The Green Book recommends:

  presenting results in summary form, supported by more detailed tables and written analysis. The summary should include key measures such as Net Present Social Value (NPSV), Benefit Cost Ratio (BCR), risks and significant unmonetised costs and benefits or other unquantifiable factors. It should clearly state the choice of time horizon for the appraisal and rationale for that choice.

  listing key assumptions used alongside the results of the quantitative analysis and providing a statement on any unquantified values. Assumptions which have a big effect should be made clear alongside the results of Social Cost Benefit Analysis.

  providing clear references and justifications, with links to sources. Sensitivity analysis of the preferred option should be presented and may be required for other options.

  that Business As Usual should be quantified in absolute terms where possible and presented alongside the results of appraisal which show the incremental effect of options.

  clearly presenting uncertainty in the estimates of BCRs or NPSVs and where possible graphical presentation should be used.