A Fuzzy Cognitive Map Approach Applied in Cost–Benefit Analysis for Highway Projects

Cost–benefit analysis (CBA) is a method widely used all over the world for transport project appraisal. However, this method needs to handle the inherent uncertainty which affects the results negatively. In a highway project, there are high uncertainties due to a lack of data, future predictions, economic indeterminacy, etc. In conventional approaches, a risk analysis, which is based primarily on a sensitivity analysis and/or Monte Carlo simulation, is conducted in order to solve the problems mentioned above. However, these approaches present some main drawbacks. This study aims to investigate the usability and utility of a new approach in highways CBA in order to cope with uncertainty easily and in a more user-friendly way. To achieve the above-cited goal, the technique of a fuzzy cognitive map (FCM) was utilized due to its popularity in modeling complex problems. A decision-making FCM model including a RISK parameter was developed by experienced people/experts in this scientific domain to assess benefits and costs in highway projects. The developed FCM model focuses on minimizing the effects of uncertainty in the CBA for highways. Therefore, the concepts of conventional CBA were defined within the domain of risk analysis. The performance of the developed FCM model was tested through actual feasibility studies as well as through a specific case study. As a result of comparisons, promising results for validation of the developed FCM model are obtained.