A Bayesian approach to default rate estimation is proposed and illustrated using a prior distribution assessed from an experienced industry expert. The principle advantage of the Bayesian approach is the potential for coherent incorporation of expert information - crucial when data are scarce or...

This paper uses household data from two cities in Panama to evaluate the determinants of the tenure decision in the context of two models. The key factors explaining the decision to rent or own are those associated with the family`s lifecycle, while the choice between buying a complete house and...

This study is designed to help practitioners prepare and evaluate institutional reforms for education and health programs. It provides an analytic framework for use by public officials and researchers, with case studies that illustrate a wide range of actual practice, and a set of lessons...