Multi-criteria Methodology Research Articles

A new approach to determining the development directions for crop insurance organizations: experience from Lithuania

The appropriate organization of the crop insurance process is an essential task for all participants in the insurance system, and the system development is one of the main arguments for its existence. The main problem is that crop insurance companies do not have any instrument for determining the most suitable direction for development as an obligatory strategic solution. This article aims to provide the methodology suitable for insurance companies as participants in the crop insurance system to determine the most appropriate direction for development under the present conditions. In this article, we provide the substantiated multicriteria methodology for determining the most suitable direction for developing the activity performed by insurance companies. Insurance companies' possible business development directions are justified, and appropriate evaluation criteria are specified. The suggested methodology is based on applying the multicriteria assessment method, TOPSIS. This original method proved to be the most suitable one for management solutions. This quantitative methodology was tested under natural conditions, using the example of Lithuania, and the suitability of its application was proved entirely. The suggested methodology can also help crop insurance companies find the best direction for future development.

ANÁLISE MULTICRITÉRIO E GEOPROCESSAMENTO NA SELEÇÃO DE ÁREAS PARA ATERROS SANITÁRIOS NA ÁREA SUL DA RIDE/DF

Population growth and changes in consumption patterns are the main activities contributing to the increase in the generation of Urban Solid Waste (USW). With the significant increase in USW generation, these wastes, in most Brazilian cities, are disposed of in an entirely inadequate manner, such as in open-air dumps, putting the environment as a whole at risk. This situation is evident in the Integrated Region of the Federal District and Surrounding Areas (RIDE), a region consisting of 22 municipalities and the Federal District. This research aimed to select suitable areas for sanitary landfills in the southern part of RIDE/DF to assist in the management of USW in the region. For this, maps of land use and land cover on a multi-temporal scale were produced, and criteria were defined, which were weighted by experts through the application of questionnaires. The weights of the criteria were calculated using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology. The criteria, represented as geographic data layers, were standardized and combined using the Weighted Linear Combination (WLC) method to produce the map of potential areas for sanitary landfills. Four alternatives for landfill areas were defined, and through multi-criteria methodology, alternative 1, located 27 km south of Luziânia, was selected. The results indicate that the proposed objectives were achieved, and the AHP method integrated with GIS provides a procedure for the precise location of areas for landfills that should meet the needs of all stakeholders.

Two Approaches to Ranking Aggregation in The Methodology of Multiple-Level, Multiple Criteria Evaluation of Urban Transportation Projects

Purpose: The objective of the study was to propose an alternative approach to aggregating rankings in a multi-level, multi-criteria methodology for assessing urban transport projects (UTP). A gap in the literature: In the literature, only one approach (so-called horizontal) is presented for aggregating rankings in a multi-level, multi-criteria methodology for assessing UTPs, implemented at two levels: operational (level II) based on the normalization formula for aggregating the substantive utility – local (in a given class) of individual UTPs of an appropriate nature to the substantive utility – global of all UTPs in the entire population, and a global assessment of UTPs, leading to obtaining the final ranking of all projects (level V) based on the aggregation formula for hierarchizing UTPs according to their global utility. Methodology/Approach used in the study: The study used the multi-level, multi-criteria methodology for assessing UTPs, including the horizontal approach to aggregating rankings; the multi-criteria decision support (MCDS) methodology, the AHP method, which is used to conduct computational experiments; and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient used to evaluate the vertical approach. Summary of findings: This article develops and presents a new approach to aggregating rankings in the multi-level, multi-criteria UTP evaluation methodology. This approach aggregates rankings only at one, level V of the methodology and is based: firstly on the original aggregation formula for prioritizing UTPs according to their global utilities obtained within predefined project classes based on their partial utilities (substantive, sectoral, strategic); and secondly on the original formula for normalizing the aggregation of global UTP utilities from predefined classes to prioritize UTPs in the final ranking according to their global utilities of all UTPs in the entire population (irrespective of the project class they were in). This article also evaluates the proposed vertical approach to aggregating rankings in the multi-level, multi-criteria UTP evaluation methodology.

Decision-making frameworks for assessment of small-scale off-grid photovoltaic home system-based design concepts in rural context of north-east India

Energy security plays an influential role in developing sustainable cities and promoting a better quality of life for the population. The United Nations' sustainable development goal focuses on energy security. Against the backdrop of India's energy concerns in the northeastern region, the study investigates the user-centric challenges related to the designs of solar photovoltaic home system concepts to facilitate access to energy. This is followed by the proposal of design concepts for solar photovoltaic home systems that take due cognizance of the identified challenges. To facilitate determining the optimal design concept in the context of small-scale off-grid photovoltaic home systems the paper proposes and applies an extended TOmada de Decisao Interativa Multicriteria (TODIM) methodology wherein the linguistic evaluations have been modelled using T-Spherical fuzzy sets. The information was aggregated using T-Spherical Fuzzy Aczel-Alsina Hammy Mean and T-Spherical Fuzzy Aczel-Alsina Weighted Hammy Mean operators. Ten design concepts were developed and evaluated through the proposed decision-making frameworks. Five performance metrics arising out of the field study: Functionality, Reliability, Affordability, Novelty and Usability have been chosen to appraise the conceptualized design concepts. Design concept 3 has been revealed to be the optimal design concept for the application of the proposed approach. Sensitivity analysis of the ranking results revealed that although both the proposed methodologies are robust, the methodology based on T-Spherical fuzzy Aczel-Alsina Weighted Hammy Mean operator was revealed to be the superior of the two. By presenting an effective method to address the complexities in design assessment for off-grid PV systems, this research offers practical insights to guide context-specific design in the region.

Model for Assessing Engineering Competencies of Logistics Specialists in Transport Organisations

Abstract In today’s dynamic, technology-driven, and diverse world of knowledge society, transport organisations should purposefully analyse and assess their operations since they often have to face problems emerging from the lack of knowledge and competencies of logistics specialists. The engineering competencies of logistics specialists are highly appreciated in transport systems. However, the selection of assessment criteria and determination of its importance is a difficult task for managers in this sector. Thus, it is reasonable to apply the multi-criteria methodologies, such as SAW, AHP, MOORA, and VIKOR, whilst determining the importance of criteria describing the competencies of logistics specialists in a transport organisation. Applying the multi-criteria methods provides prerequisites for an objective, precise, and the least time-consuming way to evaluate the engineering competencies of logistics specialists. The analysis of the results enables the most suitable decisions to utilise the significant potential of logistics specialists. The article examines the problem areas for evaluating the competencies of logistics specialists. The current paper presents the evaluation of logistics specialists’ competencies based on the methodology used to determine the importance of criteria (SAW and AHP methods). Additionally, further recommendations are suggested to effectively manage certain corrections on competencies in transport organisations under investigation.

Assessment of Sustainable Aviation Fuel Production Methods: A Promethee II Approach

Sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) present a feasible solution to decarbonize modern aviation. Unlike traditional jet fuels, SAFs are produced in a variety of ways, thereby choosing one of these processes as a complicated Multi-Criteria Decision challenge that involves conflicting priorities. This study evaluates SAF production processes using a multicriteria methodology, PROMETHEE-2. With SAF technology in its nascent stage and limited data, several stakeholders in the aviation sector were enlisted to assist in the collection of data and preferences. The suggested framework’s strength lies in its adaptability to suit the subjective opinions of diverse stakeholders, selection of ranking system, and robustness of outcomes. This research engaged stakeholders in a participative manner to rank 11 (A1 to A11) SAF production paths based on 24 parameters categorized into social, environmental, economic, and technological evaluation criteria. Industry professionals were given a form to rate SAF production methods according to a performance criterion. Data is validated using fuzzy TOPSIS and fuzzy VIKOR and PROMETHEE-II to reduce professionals’ judgmental personal prejudice. Results indicate the optimal feedstock for SAF production is the direct transition process of CO2 to SAF (A11) in the gasification or Fischer-T synthesis group.

Securing water for arid regions: Rainwater harvesting and sustainable groundwater management using remote sensing and GIS techniques

Arid regions experience climatic stress under climate change: increased drought frequency coupled with intensified storm events. This disruption and lack of precipitation patterns leads to water scarcity and hinders the achievement of sustainable development goals. Egypt drainage basin exhibiting the greatest suitability for the implementation of rainwater harvesting (RWH) strategies. To facilitate the development of sustainable water resource management practices in the region, this study uses a multi-criteria methodology to delineate optimal zones for RWH within the Wadi Safaga. Integration of radar and optical remote sensing data obtained from Sentinel-1&2, Landsat-8, ALOS/PALSAR, and Sentinel-1 Interferometric SAR with climatic Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM), hydrological, and geological datasets emphasizes the hydrologic characteristics of the catchments. Additionally, the analysis of rainfall intensity patterns within the basin was undertaken. Thirteen factors are used in the predicted model including elevation, slope, curvature, depression, lithology, radar, InSAR CCD, drainage density (Dd), distance to river (DR), vegetation, topographic wetness index (TWI), rainfall, and lineament density. A knowledge-driven Geographic Information System (GIS) methodology, including weighted factors based on the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), was implemented to delineate plausible areas for RWH and groundwater potential zones (GWPZs). The resultant map categorized the basin into five GWPZ classes: very low (14%), low (28%), moderate (27%), high (21%), and very high (10%). Furthermore, the study identified optimal locations for constructing reservoirs to store harvested rainwater and provide protection for downstream mining, industrial, and tourism activities. In conclusion, the obtained information is crucial for planners and decision-makers to implement sustainable water resource management strategies within the Wadi Safaga basin.

CONSIDERATIONS REGARDING THE DEVELOPMENT OF A HIERARCHY OF SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES WITHIN AIR FORCES USING MULTICRITERIA ANALYSIS

Special operations forces represent an elite element within each military, playing a crucial role in contemporary military operations. Their significance stems not only from the exceptional level of personnel training but also from the quality of equipment and logistic support provided, as these aspects are determinant for the effectiveness and success of the missions they are involved in. In this regard, aircraft and equipment associated with these forces must meet high standards and fulfill stringent requirements, given the complex nature of special operations. The article aims to provide readers with an insight into the hierarchy of special operations forces, adopting an analytical approach based on multicriteria methodologies. This methodology allows for the evaluation and comparison of various aspects of special forces, including personnel training, technological capabilities, operational flexibility, and logistical efficiency, to identify and highlight the key elements contributing to the success of these units.

Enhanced planning capacity in urban renewal: Addressing complex challenges using neutrosophic logic and DEMATEL

Urban renewal is imperative due to growing urbanization (i.e., population migration into cities), requiring acceptable planning to meet peoples' housing needs and playing a key role in highlighting and satisfying societies' needs. Complex urban renewal decisions encompass environmental degradation, poverty, inequality, and inaccessibility to services. Decision makers must meet on-going challenges by transforming urban spaces so that they satisfy all constraints while satisfying residents' needs. A holistic view of urban renewal facilitates efficient strategies for meeting economic, social, and environmental obligations. Multicriteria methodology may ideally be used to develop a complete, transparent, and realistic model that identifies planning factors best resolving urban renewal efforts. Therefore, we rely on cognitive mapping, the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory technique, and neutrosophic logic, applied by a panel of experts with experience in urban renewal planning in two group work meetings. The results were analyzed and validated by an independent specialist in this field. The contributions and limitations of this methodological framework were also examined.

Exploring the dynamics of bigdata adoption in the Indian food industry with fuzzy analytical hierarchical process

PurposeThe main aim of this study is to identify and prioritize the factors that influence the adoption of big data analytics (BDA) within the supply chain (SC) of the food industry in India.Design/methodology/approachThe study is carried out in two distinct phases. In the first phase, barriers hindering BDA adoption in the Indian food industry are identified. Subsequently, the second phase rates/prioritizes these barriers using multicriteria methodologies such as the “analytical hierarchical process” (AHP) and the “fuzzy analytical hierarchical process” (FAHP). Fifteen barriers have been identified, collectively influencing the BDA adoption in the SC of the Indian food industry.FindingsThe findings suggest that the lack of data security, availability of skilled IT professionals, and uncertainty about return on investments (ROI) are the top three apprehensions of the consultants and managers regarding the BDA adoption in the Indian food industry SC.Research limitations/implicationsThis research has identified several reasons for the adoption of bigdata analytics in the supply chain management of foods in India. This study has also highlighted that big data analytics applications need specific skillsets, and there is a shortage of critical skills in this industry. Therefore, the technical skills of the employees need to be enhanced by their organizations. Also, utilizing similar services offered by other external agencies could help organizations potentially save time and resources for their in-house teams with a faster turnaround.Originality/valueThe present study will provide vital information to companies regarding roadblocks in BDA adoption in the Indian food industry SC and motivate academicians to explore this area further.

A rank aggregating method based on several multi-criteria methodologies 'minimum of ranks': a case study for student's room allocation

A rank aggregating method based on several multi-criteria methodologies 'minimum of ranks': a case study for student's room allocation

A rank aggregating method based on several multi-criteria methodologies 'minimum of ranks': a case study for student's room allocation

A rank aggregating method based on several multi-criteria methodologies 'minimum of ranks': a case study for student's room allocation

A Novel WENSLO and ALWAS Multicriteria Methodology and Its Application to Green Growth Performance Evaluation

A Novel WENSLO and ALWAS Multicriteria Methodology and Its Application to Green Growth Performance Evaluation

Usage of Building Passports and BIM in Multi-Criteria Evaluation

This paper presents a proposal for a multi-criteria evaluation methodology for partial building structures. The use of the multi-criteria methodology allows, in contrast to the usual assessment of the sustainability of buildings (e.g. for building certification), the assessment of individual building structures, which is essential, especially for the renovation or reconstruction of existing buildings. The survey aims at administrative buildings of public administration, however, the design of the methodology can be applied to a variety of building structures. The authors carried out research into innovative ways of using building information tools that are important for making the overall property management in facility management more efficient. The paper focuses on the possibility of using information based on these building information tools. One of the possibilities how to make building management more efficient and increase human performance can be using building-specific information along with providing a pleasant healthy workplace. Maintenance, renovation or reconstruction represent a significant cost over the entire life cycle. However, it is necessary to set limit conditions defining the level above which the condition of buildings should be maintained in relation to their purpose and demands placed on them. The article also responds to an anticipated EU decision that shall lead to renovations or reconstructions of office buildings as a result of efforts to reduce their emissions impact and energy intensity. Thanks to the proposed methodology, the owner which specifically in this article is the state and public administration, will be able to better evaluate both the financial impact and other criteria important for the choice of a specific type of construction, product and implementation procedures.

Enhancing Personnel Selection through the Integration of the Entropy Synergy Analysis of Multi-Attribute Decision Making Model: A Novel Approach

Personnel selection stands as a pivotal component within the domain of human resource management, intrinsically tethered to the quality of the workforce at large. In this research endeavor, we introduce the Entropy Synergy Analysis of Multi-Attribute Decision Making (ES-MADM) model, an innovative framework expressly designed to rationalize and augment the decision-making processes inherent in the evaluation and selection of personnel within corporate entities. The ES-MADM model systematically navigates the complexities of personnel selection by imbuing objectivity into the assessment criteria, thereby facilitating the structured ranking of potential candidates and establishing a discernible selection sequence. Furthermore, it delves into the statistical significance of these criteria, thereby reinforcing the decision-making process’s stability. This research conducts a comparative analysis with alternative multicriteria methodologies and employs sensitivity analysis to ascertain the overall efficacy of the ES-MADM model. This scholarly pursuit, through its rigorous approach, furnishes a comprehensive solution to the intricate challenges surrounding personnel selection, thereby championing a systematic, data-driven approach to underpin pivotal decisions in this sphere.

Multicriteria Methodology for the Efficient Programming of Agricultural Cultivation Activities in a Colombian Region

The potato is one of the main agricultural products in Colombia and is the second most important crop in the country. The production of this tuber represents 3.3% of the country’s agricultural gross domestic product (GDP). More than 100,000 producer families subsist on cultivation at the national level, the vast majority of which are smallholdings. However, smallholders are not able to exploit the full potential of this activity, and one of the main factors that does not allow for improving productivity is the inefficient use of land in agricultural activities. This leads to issues such as erosion, overexploitation of soil resources, reduced productivity, and, depending on the time of year, even an excess of potato supply. Therefore, a multicriteria methodology is proposed based on the key elements of the potato crop production cycle and its environment, made up of farmers from the municipality of Ventaquemada, located in Boyacá, where potato cultivation is a traditional practice. This department is the second-largest potato-producing department in the country. A review of the literature was carried out to determine and characterise the area of the selected department, and based on the above, the relevant criteria were defined and the alternatives to be evaluated were identified. Second, the proposed model is evaluated with its respective prioritisation process of both the criteria and the alternatives according to the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) methodology. Finally, the results of the model are presented, prioritizing the type of tillage, irrigation method, seed type, and its disinfection process for potato cultivation. This takes into account topographic and climatic conditions, the ecosystem, soil type, implementation costs, among other factors specific to the case study.

ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND OTHER NON-PROFIT IMPACTS OF MOUNTAIN STREAMS USAGE AS RENEWABLE ENERGY RESOURCES

<p>The main subject of this manuscript is mountain streams used by construction of small hydro power plants. The motivation for this research stemmed from a number of conflicting opinions about the justification of the construction of small hydropower plants and their facilities. This research encompasses different methods for the analysis of the justification of the construction of a small hydropower plant, starting from tradition in correlation with water mills, through a techno-economic approach to a complex multi-criteria research model. All methods are represented by objective formulas.</p> <p>World experiences are also presented, through the level of potential utilization, compared to the degree of development. The possible positive and negative impacts of the construction of such facilities for the exploitation of the potential of small watercourses were analyzed. After the conducted research, and with respect to the principle of minimum energy, which has become the paradigm of modern civilization, it can be concluded that using the potential of small watercourses by building small hydropower plants belongs to the domain of using renewable energy sources and that it is a function of sustainable development.</p> <p>Decision makers are recommended to exclusively apply a multi-criteria methodology, which can holistically include all technical, economic, environmental, social and other non-profitable but important impacts.</p>

Groundwater nitrate pollution risk assessment based on the potential impact of land use, nitrogen balance, and vulnerability

The predicting groundwater nitrate pollution risk, especially in terms of changes in fertilizing, has not been fully investigated so far. In particular, there is no comprehensive method to assess this risk in areas of different land use type, and not only in agricultural areas. The aim of this study was to develop a novel multicriteria methodology for groundwater nitrate pollution risk assessment, which meets these issues. A further aim was to determine how much this risk would change if the amount of organic and synthetic fertilization was reduced. An assumption was that groundwater pollution risk is a combination of the potential adverse impacts of land use, fertilization, and intrinsic groundwater vulnerability to pollution. The impact of fertilization was holistically evaluated by balancing nitrogen from spatially differentiated the size of the breeding, species of livestock, manure and synthetic fertilizers input, and spatially differentiated topsoil, with nitrogen uptake by different crops. The nitrate concentration in the leachate was used as a measure of the impact of fertilization. This concentration was compared to the natural baseline nitrate concentration in groundwater. Three fertilization scenarios for groundwater pollution risk assessment in two study areas were discussed. Under typical agricultural, climatic, soil, and geological conditions in Europe for the current total fertilization level of 95-120 kg N ha−1 groundwater nitrate pollution risk is low and moderate, but for fertilization of 150-180 kg N ha−1, a reduction in the total fertilization (synthetic and manure) by 40 to 50% may be required to achieve low risk of degradation of natural groundwater quality. Predictive simulations of groundwater nitrate pollution risk confirmed that reducing synthetic and organic fertilization has an effect, especially in areas with intensive fertilization. This method may allow for a holistic and scenario-based assessment of groundwater pollution risk and may help decision-makers introduce solutions to manage this risk under conditions of climate change, preservation of groundwater quality, and food security.

A Comprehensive Multicriteria Evaluation Approach for Alternative Marine Fuels

In the last decade, shipping decarbonization has accelerated rapidly in response to the regulatory framework. Shifting toward alternative marine fuel options is the subject of extensive study from stakeholders and researchers. This study attempts to propose a decision support model for alternative fuel evaluation. The decision-making process is multidimensional, comprising economic, technical, environmental, and social aspects, and has been carried out with the aid of the outranking multicriteria methodology, Promethee II. The approach is based on a comprehensive list of 11 criteria and 25 sub-criteria, covering all the crucial aspects. The weighting criteria process postulates the viewpoints of six stakeholder categories, including all the stakeholders’ preferences: shipowners, fuel suppliers, industry and engine manufacturers, academics, banks and the public. The results demonstrated that although LNG, MGO and HFO are classified in the highest positions, there are renewable options that also appear in high-ranking positions in most categories and especially among academics, banks, the public and in the combined case scenario. The commercially available options of drop-in biofuels, bio and e-LNG, fossil and bio methanol were ranked in these high positions. This approach offers insight into the assessment and selection of alternative marine fuel options, providing an incentive for strategic planning.

Economic-financial performance and value creation in the Brazilian construction industry

PurposeThis paper aims to analyze the economic-financial performance (EFP) and value creation (VC) in the Brazilian construction industry.Design/methodology/approachBased on the theories of strategy and finance, a quantitative-qualitative, descriptive and explanatory and applied study was carried out, contrasting the performance of the Direcional company and the civil construction industry – both listed on the Brazilian Stock Exchange and the Over-the-Counter Market (B3)FindingsThe analysis of the EFP in the Brazilian construction industry shows that EZTEC, Helbor, Trisul and Direcional were the companies with the best EFP in the period. The analysis of the Economic Value Added (EVA®, henceforth EVA), as a VC metric and basis for assessing the relative technical efficiency score by Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA®, henceforth DEA), revealed that the companies Direcional, EZTEC, MRV and CR2 were considered efficient throughout the period covered. The multicriteria methodology for empirical testing of the EFP and VC allowed not only contrasts Direcional's results with the other companies of the construction industry but also offered a complementary tool for comparative analysis of enterprises of different sizes, structures and realities.Research limitations/implicationsRegardless of any contextual limitations, from a theoretical point of view, the research not only helps fill the research gap aforementioned but also expands knowledge on the topic and demonstrates how this multi-criteria methodology (integrating DEA and EVA) can be used to assess EFP and VC in addition to traditional tools. However, this new approach evaluates, at the same time, corporate and sectorial effectiveness by contrasting the efficiency and efficacy (simultaneously) in the generation of performance and value of a company in relation to the industry.Practical implicationsSignificant implications for managerial practice could be noted by offering a tool to improve company performance and creating a competitive benchmarking process for analysts, investors, managers, financing agencies, shareholders, policymakers and business owners, as well as organizations and sectors in similar situations – who need to assess the EFP and VC holistically and improve their decision-making processes.Originality/valueThe uniqueness and innovation of this research come from the original multi-criteria methodology developed, applied and validated for analysis of EFP and VC. This methodology was operationalized through DEA applied to the companies' EVA, making it possible to compare corporate results and those of the whole industry in a balanced way – an unexplored issue in the literature, especially in emerging economies, opening several avenues for future research.