Multi-attribute utility analysis?a major decision aid technique

Abstract

The multi-attribute utility analysis (MUA) is an applied decision aid technique within the overall framework of multi-criteria analysis. The technique is used for the quantitative appraisal of decision alternatives in complex programmes, projects or policies with reference to explicit, defined criteria or objectives to assess their suitability or desirability in the decision-making process. In the past, programmes, projects or policies were judged and assessed on a single criterion-finance-or at best, on a very limited set of criteria and managed on an informal, intuitive basis. That simplistic approach currently falls short of expectations of the public or the demands of the present-day projects where complexity and diversity have grown enormously and the decision criteria have become multifarious. This MUA technique helps to analyse decision alternatives on a multi-criteria basis and ranks them from the most preferred to the least preferred for easier assimilation by decision-makers. The technique was used by the US Department of Energy in the mid-1980s in selecting suitable site(s) out of five nominated sites for the disposal of high-level radioactive wastes. It is increasingly being used by national organisations in the UK and abroad.