Screening and Tradeoff Analysis

Abstract

In this chapter we turn to the first analytical step in a multi-attribute decision analysis, namely the preparation and analysis of tradeoff plots. Tradeoff plots have three major functions. The first is to serve as a screening device, by identifying those options that do not appear to warrant further attention. The second, related function is to assist in the definition of strategies (combinations of options). The third, and perhaps most important, is to highlight the tradeoffs that must in fact be made by the decision-maker. In its simplest form, a tradeoff graph is just a plot of two attributes, in which the attribute values for the various options under consideration are displayed graphically.

Someone told me that each equation I included in the book would have the salesSTEPHEN HAWKING, A Brief History of Time (1988)

We often experience more regret over the part we h ave left, than pleasure over the part we have prefferedJOSEPH ROUX, Meditations of a Parish Priest, 5:26 (1866)