A framework that uses sensitivity analysis to select multi criteria decision making methods

A new structured framework is proposed to select an appropriate group of candidate Multiple Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methods for a decisional problem. The research is revealing factors to be addressed when selecting a MCDM method, including problem characteristics and method characteristics. Mathematical approaches are applied to candidate methods to select the method that will provide the most robust output. Problem characteristics considered in the framework will address the nature of alternative sets, type of input set, nature of the information being considered, type of decision problem being addressed and type of preference mode being considered. MCDM methods, characteristics will address the type of ordering of alternatives, the measurement scale, the type of preference structure and ease of use. By addressing these factors, this framework can provide decision makers with a suggested group of candidate MCDM methods that are appropriate for their MCDM problem. Finally, sensitivity analysis and mathematical approaches will be applied to the suggested group of candidate methods to automatically select a MCDM method that delivers the most robust outcome. This will be achieved by calculating the minimum percentage change in criteria weights and performance measures required to reverse the ranking of any two alternatives.