When analyzing several options for a facility project, non-cost issues assume greater importance when cost/savings comparisons yield similar results.

• A. Yield significantly different results
• B. Yield no difference in results
• C. Yield similar results
• D. Cost savings degrade

Answer: (C)

When evaluating several options for a facility project, if the cost and savings outcomes are similar, non-cost factors become the deciding elements. If the financial picture doesn’t clearly favor one option, you look at qualitative considerations such as reliability, safety, ease of maintenance, energy efficiency, space requirements, potential disruption during implementation, regulatory compliance, and occupant comfort. These non-cost issues help differentiate options and guide you to the choice that best fits long-term goals and risk tolerance. If the options yielded significantly different cost results, cost would drive the decision instead; if there were no difference in results, non-cost factors would still be considered, but the emphasis described here applies most directly when the results are similar.