Efficiency estimation and error decomposition in the stochastic frontier model: A Monte Carlo analysis

Critics of the deterministic approach to efficiency measurement argue that no allowance is made for measurement error and other statistical noise. Without controlling faa measurement error, the resulting measure of efficiency will be distorted due to the contamination of noise. The stochastic frontier models purportedly allow both inefficiency and measurement error. Some proponents argue that the stochastic frontier models should be used despite the limitations because of the superior conceptual treatment of noise. However, the ultimate value of the stochastic frontier depends on its ability to properly decompose noise and inefficiency. This paper tests the validity of the stochastic frontier cross-sectional models using a Monte Carlo analysis. The results suggest that the technique does not accurately decompose the total error into inefficiency and noise components. Further, the results suggest that at best, the stochastic frontier is only as good as the deterministic model. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.