Finding Consistent Weights Assignment with Combined Pairwise Comparisons

Abstract

Weights assignment occurs frequently in many classification and ranking techniques. When judgements are subjective, or partially subjective, both the weight assignment and justification of its consistency is often problematic. The method of pairwise comparisons is a very helpful technique that can be used to validate weights assignments and to justify their consistency. In this paper two quantitative models and one qualitative model of pairwise comparisons are merged together, resulting in a convenient procedure for finding consistent weights and provide consistent ranking. Moreover, three applications, in different areas, of that procedure are given. Often neglected, the weights correction problem is also discussed.