Improving Transport Project Appraisals
In the Islamic Countries
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Creating standards and a harmonised approach
Standards
should be further developed, contributing to a more harmonised approach. As
mentioned above, the expertise centres could enhance this process.
Standardisation
can focus on the
process steps
to follow in the appraisal process, or on how
to carry out a feasibility study. It is recommended to design the process in accordance with
international best practices, as for example prepared by the WB or other IFIs (see Chapters
2-3 for more information on this). This would also facilitate collaboration with such external
partners.
In addition, it is recommended to
standardise
input parameters
. If for similar type of projects,
input values, such as discount rates or evaluation periods, are similar, results of the appraisal
process can be compared.
In order to support this standardisation process, it should be considered to develop
project
appraisal manual(s)
, including process steps and input values.
Use of appraisal and applying project appraisal as part of a full project cycle
The appraisal process is now used as an ex-ante evaluation of a project, mostly for justifying
an investment decision. It could be considered to broaden the use of the appraisal process,
not only for justifying an investment decision, but also to prioritise those projects that yield
best results. The appraisal process can then be extended towards prioritising transport
projects.
Furthermore, it is recommended to monitor the implementation of a project, as well as carry
out ex-post evaluation of a project. This to verify whether costs and benefits have developed
as planned and to use results and draw lessons to be better able to carry out next appraisals.