Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis

1. Front Matter

   Pages i-xix

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2. Introduction

   • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

   Pages 1-12

3. The Multiple Criteria Problem

   • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

   Pages 13-33

4. Problem Structuring

   • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

   Pages 35-77

5. Preference Modelling

   • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

   Pages 79-118

6. Value Function Methods: Practical Basics

   • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

   Pages 119-161

7. Value Function Methods: Indirect And Interactive

   • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

   Pages 163-207

8. Goal and Reference Point Methods

   • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

   Pages 209-232

9. Outranking Methods

   • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

   Pages 233-259

10. Implementation of MCDA: Practical Issues and Insights

    • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

    Pages 261-292

11. MCDA in a Broader Context

    • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

    Pages 293-329

12. An Integrated Approach to MCDA

    • Valerie Belton, Theodor J. Stewart

    Pages 331-343

13. Back Matter

    Pages 345-372

    PDF

The field of multiple criteria decision analysis (MCDA), also termed multiple criteria decision aid, or multiple criteria decision making (MCDM), has developed rapidly over the past quarter century and in the process a number of divergent schools of thought have emerged. This can make it difficult for a new entrant into the field to develop a comprehensive appreciation of the range of tools and approaches which are available to assist decision makers in dealing with the ever-present difficulties of seeking compromise or consensus between conflicting inter­ ests and goals, i.e. the "multiple criteria". The diversity of philosophies and models makes it equally difficult for potential users of MCDA, i.e. management scientists and/or decision makers facing problems involving conflicting goals, to gain a clear understanding of which methodologies are appropriate to their particular context. Our intention in writing this book has been to provide a compre­ hensive yet widely accessible overview of the main streams of thought within MCDA. We aim to provide readers with sufficient awareness of the underlying philosophies and theories, understanding of the practi­ cal details of the methods, and insight into practice to enable them to implement any of the approaches in an informed manner. As the title of the book indicates, our emphasis is on developing an integrated view of MCDA, which we perceive to incorporate both integration of differ­ ent schools of thought within MCDA, and integration of MCDA with broader management theory, science and practice.

• calculus
• development
• management
• modeling
• operational research

`The book...is an excellent overview of the different multiple criteria approaches developed in divergent schools of thought which emerged in the last three decades. This book is not only a theoretical document, but also provides good coverage of practical issues. It can be recommended to a broad audience, ranging from those in academic institutions to practitioners, as well as those who are interested in finding information on multiple criteria approaches, methods and techniques. It is an excellent book in the main area of Operations Research and Decision Analysis, with a special focus on Multiple Criteria and is suitable for undergraduate and graduate students.'
José R. Figueira, DIMACS Center, Rutgers University

• University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland

  Valerie Belton

• University of Cape Town, South Africa

  Theodor J. Stewart

Policies and ethics