Economic analysis is a useful tool for planning and evaluating prospects in changing management practice(s), also in a close to subsistence farming economy. However, it is a difficult task to validate the major part of the inputs and outputs in a situation where no market price is available and a final cost/benefit 'result' might not be achievable, or useful. But the discussions that might lead to a best guess can be very valuable for groups and individuals in an evaluation of their situation. Socio-economic factors with no market value are often highly determining for the economic evaluations and decision-making at household level. For that reason the process of weighing and holding non-quantifiable costs and benefits against each other makes sense in most cases.
