ABSTRACT
The ultimate purpose of any project evaluation is to select a course of action. If the project is a major one affecting many people, not everyone will agree about which course is “best.” Opponents might feel the process was flawed and their particular concerns have not been properly considered, or they might feel inequitably burdened with the negatives or costs of the projects while others receive the benefits. Therefore, those charged with making the decisions should have a basis for defending them. This is not only out of concern for the democratic principle that decision makers should reflect the public will, it is also needed to reach closure of the analysis process and to move on with implementation.
