Estimation with the Nested Logit Model: Specifications and Software Particularities

Nadja Silberhorn, Yasemin Boztug and Lutz Hildebrandt

No SFB649DP2007-046, SFB 649 Discussion Papers from Humboldt University, Collaborative Research Center 649

Abstract: The paper discusses the nested logit model for choices between a set of mutually exclusive alternatives (e.g. brand choice, strategy decisions, modes of transportation, etc.). Due to the ability of the nested logit model to allow and account for similarities between pairs of alternatives, the model has become very popular for the empirical analysis of choice decisions. However the fact that there are two different specifications of the nested logit model (with different outcomes) has not received adequate attention. The utility maximization nested logit (UMNL) model and the non-normalized nested logit (NNNL) model have different properties, influencing the estimation results in a different manner. This paper introduces distinct specifications of the nested logit model and indicates particularities arising from model estimation. The effects of using various software packages on the estimation results of a nested logit model are shown using simulated data sets for an artificial decision situation.

Keywords: nested logit model; utility maximization nested logit; nonnormalized nested logit; simulation study (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: C13 C31 C87 M31 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-dcm, nep-ecm and nep-upt
Date: 2007-08

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Related works:
Working Paper: Estimation with the Nested Logit Model: Specifications and Software Particularities (2006)
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Persistent link: http://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:hum:wpaper:sfb649dp2007-046

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