MULTI-ATTRIBUTE DECISION-MAKING METHODS– INDIFFERENCE ASSESSMENTS

Abstract

Real situations are based on multiple attributes or crite- ria. If the assessment problem has multiple dimensions of value, then intuitive judgments can be very difficult. In many situations, the ultimate assessment seems very difficult, especially when the decision maker chooses one of a set of possible options in an unfamiliar envi- ronment. This paper analyzes indifference value meas- urement methods. Indifference value measurement methods rely on studies of indifference (indifference assessments) or comparison of strength of preferences. The values that the decision maker gives to the attrib- utes reflect his preferences, ie. utilities. Utility is only a way to describe preferences. The process of determining (functions) values is only one form of sequential deter- mination of utility.