Problem Structuring and Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis

This chapter addresses two complementary themes in relation to problem structuring and MCDA, with a brief discussion of the complementary theme that MCDA can also be viewed as creating a problem structure within which many other standard tools of OR may be applied, and could therefore also be view as a PSM.

Abstract

This chapter addresses two complementary themes in relation to problem structuring and MCDA. The first and primary theme highlights the nature and importance of problem structuring for MCDA and then reviews suggested ways for how this process may be approached. The integrated use of problem structuring methods (PSMs) and MCDA is one such approach; this potential is explored in greater depth and illustrated by four short case studies. In reflecting on these and other experiences we conclude with a brief discussion of the complementary theme that MCDA can also be viewed as creating a problem structure within which many other standard tools of OR may be applied, and could therefore also be viewed as a PSM.