Which term describes a measure of the profitability of a project or investment?

The term that describes a measure of the profitability of a project or investment is Return on Investment (ROI). ROI provides a direct way to evaluate the financial performance of an investment relative to its cost. It is calculated by taking the net profit from the investment and dividing it by the cost of the investment, often expressed as a percentage. This metric allows stakeholders to assess how effectively their capital is being utilized to generate profits.

ROI is particularly useful because it provides a standardized way to compare the profitability of various projects or investments, regardless of their scale or duration. A higher ROI indicates a more profitable investment, making it easier for decision-makers to prioritize projects that offer the best financial returns.

Other terms, such as Net Present Value (NPV), Cost-Benefit Ratio, and Internal Rate of Return (IRR), while also relevant to financial analysis and profitability assessments, involve different calculations or considerations. They may focus on different aspects of investment evaluation, such as cash flows over time (NPV), the relationship between benefits and costs (Cost-Benefit Ratio), or the rate at which an investment breaks even (IRR). However, ROI remains the most straightforward and widely used term for determining profitability.