Engineering geological maps: A cost-benefit analysis

This paper describes an eight-step procedure designed for cost-benefit analyses concerning the preparation of engineering geological maps in general. This procedure is discussed in relation to engineering geological maps of Amsterdam as an example of an old city with many historical buildings. From the results of this analysis, it is concluded that the breakeven point will be reached in 3.2 years if only the costs of site investigation and archive searches are taken into account, and in less than 1.2 years if potential savings due to improved site selection are included.