A Multi-Criteria Approach to Decision Making in Broadband Technology Selection

2022 | Group Decision and Negotiation | Citations: 0

Authors: Araújo, Marco; Ekenberg, Love; Danielson, Mats; Confraria, João

Abstract: A new European Union regulatory framework for the telecom sector has been under ... Expand

Abstract: A new European Union regulatory framework for the telecom sector has been under a process of transposition to national laws by its member states that should have been completed by the end of 2020, notwithstanding some delays. A core purpose of the regulatory framework is to guarantee that most citizens will have access to very fast Internet connections, capable of 100 Mbps download link speed, regardless of where they live. According to this new framework, in areas where the market does not deliver, governments are to launch public tenders for the deployment, maintenance, and operations of network infrastructure as well as services, and public funds should be used to support the deployment of these broadband networks in less densely populated areas. Needless to say, public tenders of this nature are subject to different criteria when it comes to candidate evaluation. In this paper, we present a decision model for the selection of operators to deploy and maintain broadband networks in scarcely populated areas, taking into consideration infrastructure costs, the technical quality offered by the solutions, and the credibility of the candidates. We suggest an integrated multi-stakeholder multi-criteria approach and demonstrate how it can be used in this complex area and find that in the example provided, taking a relevant set of criteria into the analysis, optical fibre networks hold much higher chances to be used in these public tenders compared to networks based on the broadly favoured 5G technology. Collapse

Topics: procurement management communication service infrastructure real option technological change

Methods: simulation trade-off analysis method multiple criteria decision making stochastic model ELECTRE

Theories: options theory

Group Multi-Objective Optimization Under Imprecision and Uncertainty Using a Novel Interval Outranking Approach

2022 | Group Decision and Negotiation | Citations: 0

Authors: Fernández, Eduardo; Gómez-Santillán, Claudia; Rangel-Valdez, Nelson; Cruz-Reyes, Laura

Abstract: This paper deals with group multi-objective optimization problems with imperfect ... Expand

Abstract: This paper deals with group multi-objective optimization problems with imperfect information (imprecision, uncertainty, ill-definition, arbitrariness). Since collective preference, belief, and attitude towards conservatism are ill-defined concepts, the handling of imperfect information is a crucial issue in group decision making. Imperfect knowledge is modeled here using a novel interval-based outranking approach that permits us to handle the levels of conservatism from the group members and its dependence on the set of criteria. We propose two different methods that are appropriate for decision structures in the form of teams and committees. In these structures, there is a special actor (the so-called Supra Decision Maker, SDM) with authority for creating an aggregation of the group members’ preferences, beliefs,and levels of conservatism, and for taking the final collective decision. In the first method, the SDM behaves as an “altruistic dictator”. The SDM creates an “altruistic” aggregation of preferences, beliefs, and levels of conservatism in an outranking model based on interval numbers. This model is then used to identify a final solution that is a best compromise for the SDM, taking into account the interval-based aggregated information from group members. In the second method, each group member uses an interval outranking model to solve an individual optimization problem, and to identify his or her best solution. Based on these individual best solutions, the SDM behaves democratically, searching for a solution that maximizes the measures of group satisfaction and dissatisfaction; the solution is improved through several rounds of consensus-reaching. The potential of both methods is illustrated with a realistically sized example of many-objective project portfolio optimization. Collapse

Topics: decision making operating system

Methods: computational algorithm trade-off analysis method ELECTRE multi objective optimization optimization model

A Novel Group TODIM Method Based on Multi-Granularity Proportional Hesitant Fuzzy Linguistic Term Sets for Water Resources Risk Evaluation

2022 | Group Decision and Negotiation | Citations: 0

Authors: Li, Liang; Liu, Yanwu; Tu, Yan; Zhou, Xiaoyang; Lev, Benjamin

Abstract: The risk of water resources has become a serious crisis threatening the human su ... Expand

Abstract: The risk of water resources has become a serious crisis threatening the human survival and social development. Based on the establishment of a comprehensive risk evaluation system from perspective of water quantity and water quality, this paper proposes a group TODIM (an acronym in Portuguese for Interactive and Multi-criteria Decision Making) with multi-granularity proportional hesitant fuzzy linguistic term sets (PHFLTSs) based on a novel comparison method to evaluate water resources risk. In the method, a novel supplementary of extension function and hesitation value function of comparing and measuring the PHFLTSs is firstly proposed. Furthermore, incomplete weight information method is introduced to establish optimization model to compute the final indicator weights, which are extended to TODIM method to evaluate water resources risk of Hubei Province of China. Finally, the availability and reliability of the method are confirmed by further analysis, and specific management suggestions are put forward to reduce the associated risk. Collapse

Topics: decision making risk management

Methods: trade-off analysis method sensitivity analysis TOPSIS optimization model ELECTRE

Theories: loss aversion prospect theory

An integrated decision analysis methodology based on IF-DEMATEL and IF-ELECTRE for personnel selection

2020 | Decision Support Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Kilic, Huseyin Selcuk; Demirci, Ayse Ecenaz; Delen, Dursun

Abstract: Due to its complex, time-demanding, and multifaceted structure, personnel select ... Expand

Abstract: Due to its complex, time-demanding, and multifaceted structure, personnel selection is considered as a multi­ criteria decision-making problem, the framework of which includes both qualitative and quantitative criteria. Although various techniques have been proposed to address this problem in various industries, a robust methodology that is capable of explicitly considering the presence of uncertainty/vagueness is still a necessity. Therefore, with this study, we propose an integrated methodology that leverages Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and Elimination and Choice Expressing the Reality (ELECTRE) methods under Intuitionistic Fuzzy (IF) environment. Within the proposed methodology, firstly, the IF-DEMATEL method is employed to obtain the importance-weights of the elicited criteria, and then the IF-ELECTRE method is for­ mulated and applied to rank the candidates based on cardinal and ordinal evaluations. To illustrate the viability of the proposed methodology, an application case is performed at an air-filter manufacturing company. Hence, this study aims to contribute to the theoretical and practical extent of the related literature by proposing and illustrating an integrated analytics methodology capable of addressing personnel selection decisions in complex and imprecise real-world scenarios. Collapse

Topics: human resource management decision making IT skill

Methods: trade-off analysis method ELECTRE TOPSIS descriptive statistic sensitivity analysis

A Novel Trapezoidal Bipolar Fuzzy TOPSIS Method for Group Decision-Making

2019 | Group Decision and Negotiation | Citations: 0

Authors: Akram, Muhammad; Arshad, Maham

Abstract: In this research article, the notions of bipolar fuzzy numbers, trapezoidal bipo ... Expand

Abstract: In this research article, the notions of bipolar fuzzy numbers, trapezoidal bipolar fuzzy numbers, triangular bipolar fuzzy numbers and bipolar fuzzy linguistic variables are introduced. Ranking function on the set of all bipolar fuzzy numbers, and the expressions for the ranking of trapezoidal and triangular bipolar fuzzy numbers are derived. A group decision making method based on trapezoidal bipolar fuzzy TOPSIS method is proposed, and the implementation of the proposed method in the selection of best project proposal is presented. Finally, a theoretical comparison of the proposed trapezoidal bipolar fuzzy TOPSIS method with other multi-criteria decision making methods such as TOPSIS, bipolar fuzzy TOPSIS and bipolar fuzzy ELECTRE I is discussed. Collapse

Topics: decision making fuzzy logic

Methods: trade-off analysis method TOPSIS ELECTRE multiple criteria decision making cross sectional research

Theories: fuzzy set theory

Assessment of Multi-Criteria Preference Measurement Methods for a Dynamic Environment

2019 | HICSS | Citations: 0

Authors: Lenz, Annika; Schoop, Mareike

Abstract: Multi-criteria decision analysis is required in various domains where decision m ... Expand

Abstract: Multi-criteria decision analysis is required in various domains where decision making reoccurs as part of a longer-term process. When the decision context changes or the preferences evolve due to process dynamics, one-shot preference measurement is not sufficient to build an adequate basis for decision making. Process dynamics require taking into account the dimension of time. We investigate six interactive preference measurement methods providing the possibility to assess alternatives in terms of utility for an individual decision maker, whether they are suitable for dynamic preference adjustment. We use a mixed-methods approach to analyse them towards 1) requirements for a dynamic method, and 2) their efficiency, validity, and complexity. Our results show that the best method to be further developed for dynamic context is Adaptive Self-Explication slightly preferable over Pre-Sorted Self-Explication. Our assessment implicates that an extension of the Adaptive Self-Explication will enable efficient dynamic decision support. Collapse

Topics: decision support usability systems design database system

Methods: mixed method conjoint analysis multi objective optimization trade-off analysis method ELECTRE

Theories: multi-attribute utility theory

Multiple Criteria Assessment of Insulating Materials with a Group Decision Framework Incorporating Outranking Preference Model and Characteristic Class Profiles

2018 | Group Decision and Negotiation | Citations: 0

Authors: Kadziński, Miłosz; Rocchi, Lucia; Miebs, Grzegorz; Grohmann, David; Menconi, Maria Elena; Paolotti, Luisa

Abstract: We present a group decision making framework for evaluating sustainability of th ... Expand

Abstract: We present a group decision making framework for evaluating sustainability of the insulating materials. We tested thirteen materials on a model that was applied to retrofit a traditional rural building through roof’s insulation. To evaluate the materials from the socio-economic and environmental viewpoints, we combined life cycle costing and assessment with an adaptive comfort evaluation. In this way, the performances of each coating material were measured in terms of an incurred reduction of costs and consumption of resources, maintenance of the cultural and historic significance of buildings, and a guaranteed indoor thermal comfort. The comprehensive assessment of the materials involved their assignment to one of the three preference-ordered sustainability classes. For this purpose, we used a multiple criteria decision analysis approach that accounted for preferences of a few tens of rural buildings’ owners. The proposed methodological framework incorporated an outranking-based preference model to compare the insulating materials with the characteristic class profiles while using the weights derived from the revised Simos procedure. The initial sorting recommendation for each material was validated against the outcomes of robustness analysis that combined the preferences of individual stakeholders either at the output or at the input level. The analysis revealed that the most favorable materials in terms of their overall sustainability were glass wool, hemp fibres, kenaf fibres, polystyrene foam, polyurethane, and rock wool. Collapse

Topics: artificial intelligence decision making climate change database system evaluation criteria

Methods: robustness check computational algorithm trade-off analysis method multiple criteria decision making Monte Carlo simulation

Reaching Consensus with VICA-ELECTRE TRI: A Case Study

2017 | Group Decision and Negotiation | Citations: 0

Authors: de Morais Bezerra, Francineide; Melo, Paulo; Costa, João Paulo

Abstract: This paper reports on an application of the VICA-ELECTRE TRI to a real world cas ... Expand

Abstract: This paper reports on an application of the VICA-ELECTRE TRI to a real world case study. We used the model VICA (Visual, Interactive and Comparative Analysis of individual opinions) to aid a cooperative group achieving a collective solution to a multicriteria sorting problem (student allocation to classes on a language school). Based on the individual results initially obtained, the model provides tools for the visualization of results and their comparison. It also points out means to seek or build a consensus on a solution, by guiding the changes of parameters and/or preference revisions in different possible ways of interaction between the members of the group. After a brief description of the model, we present the procedures followed, from the meeting plan to the case analysis. Collapse

Topics: spreadsheet decision support system IT planning

Methods: trade-off analysis method ELECTRE case study qualitative interview cross sectional research

Key challenges and meta-choices in designing and applying multi-criteria spatial decision support systems

2016 | Decision Support Systems | Citations: 0

Authors: Ferretti, Valentina; Montibeller, Gilberto

Abstract: There is an increasing use of multi-criteria spatial decision support systems in ... Expand

Abstract: There is an increasing use of multi-criteria spatial decision support systems in recent years for dealing with problems that have a spatial distribution of consequences. This growth might be explained by the widespread recognition that there are multiple and conflicting objectives to be considered in spatial planning (e.g. minimizing pollution to air, water and soil, increasing the acceptance of the projects, reducing implementation costs), by new requirements to consider societal values in the evaluation and to increase participation in decision processes, as well as by the crucial role that the spatial dimension plays in such problems. However, we argue in this paper that there are key challenges confronted by DSS designers who are developing such systems and by DSS practitioners who are employing them to support decision making. These challenges impose important meta-choices to designers and practitioners, which may lead to different contents of the evaluation model and to distinctive outcomes of the analysis. In this paper, we present and discuss these key challenges and the associated meta-choices. The contribution that we aim to provide to both researchers and practitioners can be summarized as follows: (i) an increased awareness about choices to be made in the design and implementation of these decision support systems; (ii) a better understanding about the available alternatives for each choice, based on recent developments in the literature; and (iii) a clearer appraisal about the inherent trade-offs between advantages and disadvantages of each alternative. Collapse

Topics: decision support system decision making geographic information system

Methods: trade-off analysis method multiple criteria decision making spatial analysis sensitivity analysis survey

An Extended PROMETHE II Multi-Criteria Group Decision Making Technique Based on Intuitionistic Fuzzy Logic for Sustainable Energy Planning

2016 | Group Decision and Negotiation | Citations: 0

Authors: Montajabiha, Mahsa

Abstract: The implementations of Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Eva ... Expand

Abstract: The implementations of Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE) category to complex multi-criteria group decision making (MCGDM) scenarios have been included in thousands areas. Outranking methods such as PROMETHEE II are also greatly employed in energy planning application. In MCGDM methods if decision makers (DMs) are not able to treat precise data in order to define their preferences, the intuitionistic fuzzy set (IFS) theory enables them. IFS attributes are connected with the degree of membership and non-membership, and can be used to draw uncertainty in group decision-making situations. In this paper, a new version of the PROMETHEE II method is proposed, aiming at solving MCGDM problems. Linguistic variables are expressed in the membership function and non-membership function of IFS which are used to assess the weights of all criteria and the ratings of each alternative with respect to each criteria. Conditional normalized Euclidean distance measure is adopted to measure deviations between alternatives on intuitionistic fuzzy set. Then, a ranking algorithm is applied to indicate the order of superiority of alternatives. Finally, a practical example is given to an application of sustainable energy planning to verify our proposed method. Additionally, a comparative analysis is done among the proposed PROMETHEE II method and the intuitionistic fuzzy technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (IF-TOPSIS) method and elimination and choice translating reality method (IF-ELECTRE). Collapse

Topics: decision making fuzzy logic

Methods: trade-off analysis method TOPSIS ELECTRE cross sectional research computational algorithm

Theories: fuzzy set theory