What key factor does a cost-benefit analysis evaluate?

A cost-benefit analysis is fundamentally concerned with evaluating the relationship between the costs associated with a project and the anticipated benefits. This analysis is essential for decision-making, as it provides a quantitative basis for comparing the financial implications of a project. By calculating both projected costs and benefits, it allows stakeholders to assess whether the benefits outweigh the costs, which is crucial for determining the overall viability and potential success of the project.

The other options refer to important aspects of project management but do not specifically encapsulate the main focus of a cost-benefit analysis. The project’s timeline deals with scheduling and completion dates, team resources pertain to personnel and material requirements, and stakeholder selection involves identifying and engaging individuals who will be affected by or have an influence on the project. While these factors may influence the overall context in which a cost-benefit analysis is conducted, they do not represent the core function of the analysis itself.