Which statement about including qualitative information in the cost estimate is correct?

• A. Qualitative information should be excluded from the cost estimate.
• B. Qualitative information should be included along with costs and benefits.
• C. Qualitative information replaces numerical costs.
• D. Qualitative information is optional and rarely used.

Answer: (B)

Including qualitative information alongside quantitative costs and benefits gives decision-makers a complete picture of a program’s value. Numbers alone show how much something costs or saves, but qualitative notes explain why those costs matter, what risks exist, and how the change will affect operations, training, maintenance, or interoperability. This context helps compare alternatives where some effects can’t be neatly priced, such as potential impacts on mission readiness, user acceptance, or long-term sustainment. By documenting these non-numeric factors alongside the cost figures, you support better trade-offs and informed decisions, rather than relying solely on dollar amounts.