Module 3 - Block 3 - Excel-Based Modelling - training

Sep 11, 2026

Uploaded by Aurelia

Module 3, Block 3, presents a step-by-step approach for building an Excel-based cost-benefit analysis (CBA) model for nature-based infrastructure (NBI). It explains how to translate a qualitative system map into a quantitative spreadsheet, identify relevant indicators, assess valuation methods and data requirements, and collect and integrate data. The block also covers analysis of key metrics, testing simulation results via sensitivity analysis, and interpreting and communicating findings through an applied case study in Eswatini.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryPresentations

FormatPDF

Pages51

Reading Time18 min

AccessFree to download

Introduction: Overview of the modelling process

Section 1: Identify indicators based on System Maps

Section 2: Assess valuation methods and data

Section 3: Collect and integrate data

Section 4: Analyze results

Section 5: Test simulation results

Section 6: Interpret, analyze, and communicate findings

Case study: Eswatini (agroforestry)

Online Training Course on Nature-Based Infrastructure Module 3 – Block 3 Excel-Based Modelling Led by Supported by In partnership with About this Slide Deck This slide deck is part of a training course about naturebased infrastructure (NBI) . In this third block of Module 3 we address the following questions: What is the process to build an Excel-based model for a cost-benefit analysis? How to create and use a model in Excel that quantifies the social, economic, and environmental impacts of NBI? How to collect data? How to leverage the findings ofthe integrated CBA model? About this Slide Deck Block 1 Block 3 Block 4 Block 2 In the first two learning blocks of Module 3, you learned about system mapping and integrated cost-benefit analysis. In this third block, you will learn more about how to translate the qualitative system map into a quantitative model in Excel, assess the right valuation method, collect and integrate data in models, test results, and leverage key findings. Overall, you have the foundations for building a CBA Excel-based model. Content ✓ Introduction: Overview of the modelling process ✓ Section 1: Identify indicators based on System Maps ✓ Section 2: Assess valuation methods and data ✓ Section 3: Collect and integrate data ✓ Section 4: Analyze results ✓ Section 5: Test simulation results ✓ Section 6: Interpret, analyze, and communicate findings Introduction: Overview of the modelling process The following slides explain the different steps used in the SAVi process to build a CBA Excel-based model. How to Build a CBA Model? SAVi Excel-based CBA model template Through the years the Nature-Based Infrastructure Global Resource Centre has developed various models to assess the value of NBI projects across the globe. Today, it is this cumulative experience that we would like to share by providing a template Excel-based model for cost and benefit analysis. You can find the template model in the additional materials for Module 3 on the NBI Academy page The next slides will walk you through the general steps behind the Excel-based modelling process. Feel free to use the template or your own models. The guidelines are meant to give an overview of the process we go through with the SAVi methodology. How to Build a CBA Model? Excel-based modelling process Analyze results by looking at key metrics 5 ITERATE Collect and integrate data in CBA model 2 Assess valuation method and data requirements Test simulation results through sensitivity analysis Identify indicators based on System Maps 6 Interpret, analyze, and communicate findings 1 How to Build a CBA Model? Case study throughout the learning material – Eswatini To illustrate the step-by-step process defined on previous slide, we will provide more theoretical details on what we recommend to do in each step. We will go through each step in the process with the same case study: A SAVi assessment of agroforestry in Eswatini. The next slides explain what the project in Eswatini is about, after which you’ll be ready to jump into the process of building a CBA. You can find more details about the SAVi assessment in the technical report: [https://nbi.iisd.org/report/agroforestry-in-eswatini/](https://nbi.iisd.org/report/agroforestry-in-eswatini/) Case Study – Context SAVi of nature-based infrastructure in Eswatini • Climate change poses significant challenges to Eswatini’s agricultural sector, including water scarcity, soil degradation, and reduced crop productivity, exacerbating food insecurity, and poverty. • The Government of Eswatini and IFAD have decided to develop the Smallholder Agriculture Productivity Enhancement and Marketing Project (SAPEMP) targeting an area spanning 40,000 hectares with an estimated 24,500 households. • This initiative is crucial for helping small-scale farmers adapt to climate change and protect the environment. • Our assessment f

FAQs

What is the overall process for building an Excel-based CBA model for NBI?

The course block outlines steps to identify indicators, assess valuation methods and data needs, collect and integrate data, analyze results, test simulations through sensitivity analysis, and interpret and communicate findings.

How are system maps used in Excel-based modelling?

System maps guide the identification of CBA indicators, which are then translated into a quantitative Excel model to measure impacts.

What does the Eswatini agroforestry case study support in this module?

The Eswatini case study (SAVi assessment) is used to illustrate the step-by-step modelling approach, helping learners apply the CBA process to a real project context.

Sep 11, 2026

Uploaded by Aurelia