A novel best-worst method and Kendall model integration for optimal selection of digital voting tools to enhance citizen engagement in public decision making

Abstract

Urban transport system development often involves a central decision-making process by local government representatives or transport company managers. It is imperative to align these decisions with public preferences to ensure public acceptance and long-term sustainability. This study introduces an innovative decision-making model by integrating the Best-Worst Method (BWM) with the Kendall Model (BWM-Kendall) to support the development of urban transport systems. The primary focus is on applying this model for the optimal selection of digital voting tools to enhance citizen engagement in Dublin’s urban transport decision-making process. A detailed case study demonstrates the model’s effectiveness, emphasizing Dublin’s urban transport context. The findings from this study show the BWM-Kendall model can facilitate the formulation of more integrated and sustainable solutions to urban transport challenges, ultimately fostering increased citizen engagement in the decision-making processes related to urban transport development. Furthermore, the evaluation of digital tools involved two distinct groups: experts from academia and industry, adding depth and diversity to the assessment process.