Testing Bid Design Effects in Multiple-Bounded, Contingent-Valuation Questions

Multiple-bounded, contingent-valuation questions have been proposed as an alternative to single-bounded and double-bounded questions. While the effects of bid design on multiple- bounded responses have not been explored, findings of experimental effects in single- and double-bounded questions make this a logical area of inquiry. We explore two potential experimental effects in multiple-bounded questions. Respondents may simply express welfare estimates in the center of the bid list. Also, the range of bids may systematically influence welfare estimates. We find while respondents do not center their responses, the range of bids influences welfare estimates and responses to individual bids.