Improving evaluation for social housing

Methods and data to improve cost and benefit analysis

In this research paper, we discuss how to improve our analysis of the cost and benefits of investment in social and affordable housing.

We look at the limitations of measuring the outcomes of a project, without estimating its causal impact.

We also outline an approach for estimating causal impacts.

Key findings

• Cost benefit analysis is more accurate and relevant when based on estimates of causal impacts. We can generate these estimates using the econometrics of program evaluation.
• When evaluating programs, it's important to measure their effects on specific groups of people.
• Agencies should gather more information about certain groups of people by collecting data over time.