Measuring kamikaze attacks by resources and damage

Was the use of kamikaze attacks effective?

They did not materially extend the war, but they caused substantial trouble and were cost-effective as an anti-shipping tactic.

The answer separates strategic effect from tactical cost-effectiveness. The attacks did not change the ultimate outcome, yet forced the Allies to devote attention and defenses to a difficult threat. On a resources-expended versus damage-inflicted basis, they rank among the Axis powers' more effective anti-shipping methods.