An assessment of interventions for improving communication and trust in cost benefit analysis processes

Evaluation literature suggests that assessments of integrated transport plans should be an inclusive dialogue, for which it is crucial that participants communicate with and trust each other. However, cost benefit analysis (CBA) of integrated transport plans is often characterized by communication deficits and distrust among plan owners and evaluators. A literature review suggested five communication and trust-building interventions and related mechanisms that might improve this. In this paper, we have tested the efficacy of these five communication and trust-building interventions by applying them in an experiential study with two sequential cases, representing ‘close to real’ situations. The research aimed to develop field-tested knowledge to address the aforementioned class of CBA process problems. The research demonstrated how the five interventions could facilitate an exchange of information, knowledge and experiences, which – according to the participants – will increase the effectiveness of the CBA. Furthermore, it illustrated that a communication and trust-building strategy such as the one tested might be a useful complement to CBA practices, if adapted to the characteristics of the specific assessment process and planning context.