This new variable, “net benefits,” immediately raises three issues that must be taken
into account: what qualifies as a “benefit”? for whom? and at what level of analysis?
In the original formulation of the D&M Model, the term “impact” was used. Seddon
[40] used “consequences” and “net benefits” in his characterization of the outcomes.
We have come to prefer the term “net benefits” ourselves because the original term
“impacts” may be positive or negative, thus leading to a possible confusion as to
whether the results are good or bad. Also, the inclusion of “net” in “net benefits” is
important because no outcome is wholly positive, without any negative consequences.
Thus, “net benefits” is probably the most accurate descriptor of the final success
variable.