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Develop a cost-benefit matrix
Laatst bijgewerkt op: 19-03-2026
Developing a cost–benefit matrix allows you to systematically map the results of your research. The matrix serves as the starting point for elaborating a (societal) business case.
Types of costs and benefits
An intervention entails both hard and soft costs and benefits. Hard costs and benefits are expressed in money or time. For example, the use of a medication dispenser saves healthcare professionals two minutes per care moment. The soft costs and benefits are presented in a more descriptive manner. For example, people receiving care may experience increased independence through the use of a smart agenda to support daily structure.
A distinction can also be made between one-off and recurring costs and benefits. One-off costs include, for example, the purchase price of a system or the time investment required for installation. Recurring costs and benefits include things like subscription fees, maintenance, or structural time savings.
Where does the information come from?
The cost–benefit matrix is developed using the knowledge obtained from the research. Here, you can use both existing knowledge (from the step on existing knowledge) and newly generated knowledge. Factual information on costs is also often readily available from care providers or from suppliers of interventions, such as purchase costs or subscription fees.