Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique Research Articles

Performance Index for Rehabilitating Water Distribution Networks

Municipalities in Canada have noted that 59% of their water systems need repair, and the condition of 43% of those systems is apparently intolerable. Hence, large volumes of rehabilitation projects are necessary to improve the performance of Canadian water systems. A reliability (R) and criticality index (CI) are crucial for prioritizing rehabilitation activities and distribute budgets efficiently. “R”is a function of failure rate, while“CI”is a function of economic, operational, social, and environmental factors. The research presented in this paper aimed to develop a performance index (PI) that considered the combination of “R” and “CI” for water networks. Sound techniques were utilized to generate the PImathematical model, such as reliability theory, simple multi-attribute rating technique (SMART), and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). Data on water networks were collected from the city of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Four sub-networks were selected from the entire network to represent four types of land uses; undeveloped, residential, park, and commercial/industrial. The results showed that the PI value was 0.72, 0.93, 0.87, and 0.76 for these types of land uses, respectively. The developed models and tools are assumed to be beneficial for municipal engineers and managers as well as academics.

Application to Determination of Scholarship Worthiness Using Simple Multi Attribute Rating Technique and Merkle Hellman Method

This research was focused on explaining how the concept of simple multi attribute rating technique method in a decision support system based on desktop programming to solve multi-criteria selection problem, especially Scholarship. The Merkle Hellman method is used for securing the results of choices made by the Smart process. The determination of PPA and BBP-PPA scholarship recipients on STMIK Triguna Dharma becomes a problem because it takes a long time in determining the decision. By adopting the SMART method, the application can make decisions quickly and precisely. The expected result of this research is the application can facilitate in overcoming the problems that occur concerning the determination of PPA and BBP-PPA scholarship recipients as well as assisting Student Affairs STMIK Triguna Dharma in making decisions quickly and accurately

SISTEM PENDUKUNG KEPUTUSAN PENERIMAAN CALON MAHASISWA BARU JALUR PRESTASI DI SEKOLAH TINGGI TEKNOLOGI ADISUTJIPTO MENGGUNAKAN SIMPLE MULTI ATTRIBUTERATING TECHNIQUE

In the era of globalization, educational institutions are required to follow the development of information technology. Information technology required and can be applied as a decision support tool managerial activities at the college. This research aims to develop a decision support system for the Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi Adisutjipto (STTA), namely the acceptance of new students, especially the path of achievement, using the Simple Multi Attribute Rating Technique of Web based, where in the method is choosing alternative criteria that have value and weight has been determined, getting the new students he deserves. Based on the results of testing the system, it was concluded that the method is Simple Multi Attribute Rating Technique is effective enough to be applied in determining the admission of new students in STTA.

Study of the Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique For Decision Support

Study of the Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique For Decision Support

Study of the Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique For Decision Support

Study of the Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique For Decision Support

Decision support framework for evaluating the operational environment of forest bioenergy production and use: Case of four European countries

Complex policy-making situations around bioenergy production and use require examination of the operational environment of the society and a participatory approach. This paper presents and demonstrates a three-phase decision-making framework for analysing the operational environment of strategies related to increased forest bioenergy targets. The framework is based on SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis and the Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique (SMART). Stakeholders of four case countries (Finland, Germany, Norway and Slovenia) defined the factors that affect the operational environments, classified in four pre-set categories (Forest Characteristics and Management, Policy Framework, Technology and Science, and Consumers and Society). The stakeholders participated in weighting of SWOT items for two future scenarios with SMART technique. The first scenario reflected the current 2020 targets (the Business-as-Usual scenario), and the second scenario contained a further increase in the targets (the Increase scenario). This framework can be applied to various problems of environmental management and also to other fields where public decision-making is combined with stakeholders’ engagement. The case results show that the greatest differences between the scenarios appear in Germany, indicating a notably negative outlook for the Increase scenario, while the smallest differences were found in Finland. Policy Framework was a highly rated category across the countries, mainly with respect to weaknesses and threats. Intensified forest bioenergy harvesting and utilization has potentially wide country-specific impacts which need to be anticipated and considered in national policies and public dialogue.

Potentials of collaborative decision support methodologies to enhance reconciliation of competing forest uses—An action research on Regional Forest Programme in Finland

Compiling forest policy at national and sub-national levels is a participatory activity that aims to achieve balance between multiple forest-use alternatives. In Finland the effectiveness and acceptability of regional forest programmes has been doubted. The quest for collaboration among stakeholders towards consensus and commitment may be improved via the use of various group learning and multi-criteria decision-making methods. This study reports the phases, results and implications of an extensive action research project, applying soft systems methodology, which aims to enhance regional forest programmes by facilitating increased use of collaborative decision support methods. Stakeholder feedback from demonstration meetings suggested that discussing alternative futures and prioritizing action proposals in a multi-stakeholder group through a simple multi-attribute rating technique are the most promising immediate enhancements. An ex-post evaluation of the suggested “ideal process model” showed that the deliberative nature of regional forest programmes had strengthened and that strategic and regional choices had become more prevalent in Finnish processes. The evaluation further underlined the need for simple, easily adoptable qualitative methods, but results remained ambiguous regarding potentials of quantitative, aggregative methods. Methodological developments cannot alone unlock central problems of the programme process, namely weak political capital and propensity toward status-quo, but the programme organisation is to be redefined as well.

An integrated approach to machine selection problem using fuzzy SMART-fuzzy weighted axiomatic design

In respond to new market requirements and competitive positioning of manufacturing companies selecting optimal machines that are consistent with manufacturing goals is of crucial importance. As it involves multiple conflicting criteria and inherent ambiguity and vagueness, election of a suitable machine can be regarded as a fuzzy multi-criteria decision making problem. In this study, for the first time in the literature, an integrated approach consisting of fuzzy simple multiattribute rating technique (SMART) approach and fuzzy weighted axiomatic design (FWAD) approach is proposed to determining the optimal continuous fluid bed tea dryer for a privately owned tea plant operating in Turkey. The weights of the evaluation criteria are calculated via fuzzy SMART and then FWAD is utilized to rank competing machine alternatives in terms of their overall performance. In the FWAD application phase, five experts have determined functional requirements (FRs) and have rated alternatives. Therefore, individual fuzzy opinions were required to be aggregated in order to set up a group consensus. A group decision analysis, referred to as the least squares distance method is used to aggregating the ratings of FRs and alternatives. It is concluded that the proposed hybrid methodology is a robust decision support tool for ranking machine alternatives under fuzzy environment and furthermore, it can be exploited for other fuzzy decision making problems, as well.

Resource Aware Routing in Heterogeneous Opportunistic Networks

In heterogeneous scenarios, nodes greatly differ with respect to their capabilities and mobility patterns. Moreover, episodic connectivity in opportunistic networks further aggravates the problem of finding a suitable next-hop to obviate unnecessary utilization of network resources. In this paper, we present a Multiattribute Routing Scheme (MARS) based on “Simple Multiattribute Rating Technique” (SMART) that collects samples of vital information about a node's different characteristics. This stochastic picture of a node behavior in multiple dimensions is then effectively employed in calculating its next-hop fitness. We also devise a method based on learning rules of neural networks which dynamically determines relative importance of each dimension to maximize next-hop utility of a node. With simulations, using synthetic and real mobility traces against well-known utility-based schemes, we show that MARS can achieve better delivery ratios despite introducing limited redundancy within the network.

Sustainability assessment of tertiary wastewater treatment technologies: a multi-criteria analysis.

The multi-criteria analysis gives the opportunity to researchers, designers and decision-makers to examine decision options in a multi-dimensional fashion. On this basis, four tertiary wastewater treatment (WWT) technologies were assessed regarding their sustainability performance in producing recycled wastewater, considering a 'triple bottom line' approach (i.e. economic, environmental, and social). These are powdered activated carbon adsorption coupled with ultrafiltration membrane separation (PAC-UF), reverse osmosis, ozone/ultraviolet-light oxidation and heterogeneous photo-catalysis coupled with low-pressure membrane separation (photocatalytic membrane reactor, PMR). The participatory method called simple multi-attribute rating technique exploiting ranks was employed for assigning weights to selected sustainability indicators. This sustainability assessment approach resulted in the development of a composite index as a final metric, for each WWT technology evaluated. The PAC-UF technology appears to be the most appropriate technology, attaining the highest composite value regarding the sustainability performance. A scenario analysis confirmed the results of the original scenario in five out of seven cases. In parallel, the PMR was highlighted as the technology with the least variability in its performance. Nevertheless, additional actions and approaches are proposed to strengthen the objectivity of the final results.

The Use of Graph Theory to Study the Relationship Between the Spatial Organization and Climate in Traditional Iranian Architecture

This research will analyze the traditional Iranian buildings according to the climatic factors by the use of graph theory. By this way, the hypothesis that climate factor has a major effect on the organization of the spaces in traditional Iranian buildings will be tested. Access graphs have been used to clarify the connectivity and depth of a building’s spaces from the socio-cultural point of view. However, it cannot be applied to climate studies. Thus, this study developed the existing technique to define building layouts in terms of climate and thermal comfort. The thermal comfort was graphically evaluated by the two main factors like solar gain and wind effect, with the use of a simple multi-attribute rating technique. All the analysis had been done in the interval of zero (the worst condition) to three (the best condition). The proposed orientation-weighted graph method proved that the thermal comfort factors of the buildings under study match the seasonal movements of their inhabitants. Consequently, the developed orientation-weighted graph method can be used to study space organization in traditional Iranian building in terms of solar gain and wind effect.

ANALYZING PROCUREMENT ROUTE SELECTION FOR ELECTRIC POWER PLANTS PROJECTS USING SMART

The decision of selecting the appropriate procurement/delivery system for large investment construction projects is a critical and challenging task for clients, and therefore a significant factor for the project’s success. Complex projects as electric power plants can involve managing multiple contracts or subcontracts simultaneously or in sequence. The aim of this paper is to develop, and analyze a decision support tool to select the most efficient procurement/delivery system for multiple contracts Combined Cycle Power Plants (CCPP) constructed in Egypt and funded by the publicsector. This process involved the identification of various procurement routes, followed by the utilization of quantitative values developed in accordance with the requirements of the multi-criteria decision analysis technique known as simple multi-attribute rating technique (SMART). Results revealed that the procurement/delivery system with the highest score, for all contractual packages, is the integrated project delivery method (IPD) under which other procurement/delivery methods could be utilized such as performance-based contracting (PBC), and construction management (CM). Further in this research, a sensitivity analysis approach was adopted to validate the IPD selection, and to determine the most critical criterion and the most critical measure of performance for each contractual package.

Analyzing Effective Supplier-Quality-Management Practices Using Simple Multiattribute Rating Technique and Value-Focused Thinking

Supplier-quality-management (SQM) practices are important to ensure that supplied project materials are within quality specifications. However, not all SQM practices have similar impact on quality or are easy to perform within construction projects. This research describes applying simple multiattribute rating technique (SMART) to analyze a number of SQM practices that are consistent with the balanced scorecard (BSC) perspectives, namely, financial, customer (supplier), internal business, and innovation and learning. Each SQM practice is assessed in terms of its ease of implementation and impact on quality. In addition, the research describes important leadership principles that were found in the literature, and utilizes the value-focused thinking (VFT) method to derive important leadership objectives and practices for SQM. The SMART analysis identified SQM practices that are most important within each perspective, such as the practice of holding joint quality planning within the innovation and learning perspective of the BSC. The results of applying VFT show that having a quality director who establishes and supports the culture of SQM is the most important leadership practice. The research findings can benefit construction organizations wishing to improve their existing SQM by identifying practices that are easy to implement with high impact on quality, and by sharing organizations’ leadership objectives and practices necessary to develop strategic leadership and successfully implement SQM practices within construction projects.

Developing a participative multi criteria decision making technique: a case study

Multi criteria decision making (MCDM) has become widely used to facilitate decision making. This study reports on the development and evaluation of a participative MCDM method, 'simple multi attribute rating technique for enhanced stakeholder take–up' (SMARTEST), designed for high levels of stakeholder involvement through an iterative process. In a case study of recovery from acidifying pollution of a river in Scotland, six options were evaluated against 12 criteria. Stakeholders participated fully in seven of the ten stages of the process and partially engaged in two others. The use of SMARTEST was effective in helping stakeholders gain insights into the decision making process of themselves and each other.

An Indicator-Based Determination of Commercialization Potential of Research Institutions

This paper develops a practical knowledge management decision support tool for research institutions. We build on the most established indicators inventions, publications and third-party funds. With the help of the Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique (SMART-Method) we combine these different indicators to a single measure that represents the existing scientific knowledge within research institutions that potentially can be commercialized using traditional transfer channels. A case study of a typical German university illustrates the applicability and transferability of our approach. We present several fields for future research and discuss a range of practical applications.

Multicriteria approach for selecting the most vulnerable watershed for developing a management plan/ Użycie wielu kryteriów do wyboru najbardziej wrażliwej zlewni w projektowaniu planu zarządzania

Abstract Listing of watershed management goals/targets is one of the integral parts of the management plan for a watershed. In this paper, we have listed 18 watershed management targets for which the Malaysian watersheds could possibly be managed in future. Based on the listed watershed management targets, the priority ranking of 18 targets is developed from the relative importance weights obtained from a survey conducted from 29 stakeholders. Three weighting methods (SWING, SMART, and SMARTER) were applied to elicit weights. We found that the SMART (Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique) weighting method was a favorable method for eliciting stable sets of weights for the watershed management targets. The SWING weighting method produces better weights than the SMARTER method. The listed watershed management targets will assist watershed managers and decision makers in decision making to use available resources (e.g. water quality, land-use, groundwater, and many other resources) in a more efficient and sustainable manner. The efficient utilization of all resources within a watershed will ultimately save watersheds (more specifically the urbanized watersheds) from further deterioration caused by unchecked infrastructure development activities

Simple multi-attribute rating technique for renewable energy deployment decisions (SMART REDD)

In the effort to provide electrical power service and the sustaining fuel required to run generators at forward-deployed bases in Afghanistan and Iraq over more than 10 years, the US military spent billions of dollars and a paid a heavy toll in terms of human casualties. The green energy linear program for optimizing deployments (GELPOD) proof-of-concept model showed that a linear program could be used to optimize combat deployment of energy generation systems to minimize cost and casualties. Results indicated that reduction in both cost and casualties for renewable energy sources was highly dependent on fuel cost and deployment length. Neglected in the decision making process, however, were factors that impact the operational success of the mission. When deploying combat units, commanders must not only consider potential costs and casualties, they must also contend with battlefield mobility requirements, maintenance capability (or lack thereof), weather, and anticipated hostile action that could affect operational performance. This paper leverages the simple multi-attribute rating technique (SMART), pioneered by Edwards, to attempt to address this deficiency. The resulting simple multi-attribute rating technique for renewable energy deployment decisions (SMART REDD) model allows commanders to take mission attributes into consideration when making decisions on which energy source is most appropriate for the mission as well as providing information on operations costs, expected transportation requirements, and expected casualties.

ERP Selection: The SMART Way

Abstract Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems implementation projects are challenging and resource consuming. There are several phases in the ERP implementation process. One of the earliest and most critical phases is the ERP selection phase. If an organization selects an inadequate ERP to fit their needs, the project will most likely destine to fail. Research and practice have provided several cases of ERP project failures because of a faulty selection process. No matter what amendments the adopting company undertakes in the later phases, if there is no fit, there is no success. This research, presents an explanatory case study, which employed a simple multi-attribute rating technique (SMART)-based ERP selection method. The selection method was mainly based on developing process maps for all the critical business processes inside the organization, and then checking the degree of compliance of the potential ERP packages with those developed process maps. In addition, other factors were also included in the ERP evaluation and selection process. As the ERP was assured to be matching the business requirements, the method and the selection factors have been proven adequate for the selection process. In addition, this minimizes the risk of a non-fitting ERP system and consequent project failures.

Coupling Spatial Multiattribute Analysis and Optimization to Identify Reforestation Priority Areas

Reforestation programs have been proposed as a remedial measure to tackle deforestation and forest ecosystems degradation. Because one of the main constraints to the implementation of restoration practices is lack of funding, these programs need to be carefully planned to efficiently use the economic and human resources invested. In this study we present a geospatial decision-making tool to identify suitable areas for restoration. The overall approach entails (1) the use of the simple multiattribute rating technique (SMART) to identify and rank the attributes according to their importance for prioritizing areas for restoration and (2) the implementation of 0–1 integer programming to select the areas that maximize the environmental benefit. The approach is exemplified through a case study in central Mexico's mountainous state of Estado de Mexico, encompassing an area just above 2 million ha. Specialists in different aspects of reforestation selected the following attributes to identify priority areas for r...

Decision support model for selecting and evaluating suppliers in the construction industry

A structured evaluation of the construction industry's suppliers, considering aspects which make their quality and credibility evident, can be a strategic tool to manage this specific supply chain. This study proposes a multi-criteria decision model for suppliers' selection from the construction industry, as well as an efficient evaluation procedure for the selected suppliers. The model is based on SMARTER (Simple Multi-Attribute Rating Technique Exploiting Ranking) method and its main contribution is a new approach to structure the process of suppliers' selection, establishing explicit strategic policies on which the company management system relied to make the suppliers selection. This model was applied to a Civil Construction Company in Brazil and the main results demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed model. This study allowed the development of an approach to Construction Industry which was able to provide a better relationship among its managers, suppliers and partners.