Introduction to Efficiency and Productivity Analysis

An Introduction to Efficiency and Productivity Analysis is designed as a primer for anyone seeking an authoritative introduction to efficiency and productivity analysis. It is a systematic treatment of four relatively new methodologies in Efficiency/Production Analysis: (a) Least-Squares Econometric Production Models, (b) Total Factor Productivity (TFP) Indices, (c) Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA), and (d) Stochastic Frontiers. Each method is discussed thoroughly. First, the basic elements of each method are discussed using models to illustrate the method's fundamentals, and, second, the discussion is expanded to treat the extensions and varieties of each method's uses. Finally, one or more case studies are provided as a full illustration of how each methodology can be used. In addition, all four methodologies will be linked in the book's presentation by examining the advantages and disadvantages of each method and the problems to which each method can be most suitably applied. The book offers the first unified text presentation of methods that will be of use to students, researchers and practitioners who work in the growing area of Efficiency/Productivity Analysis. The book also provides detailed advice on computer programs which can be used to calculate the various measures. This involves a number of presentations of computer instructions and output listings for the SHAZAM, TFPIP, DEAP and FRONTIER computer programs.