An Example of Good Modelling Practice in Goal Programming: Means for Overcoming Incommensurability

Abstract

Much discussion has taken place over the need for good modelling practice when formulating and solving goal programmes (GP’s). However, a considerable amount of poor or erroneous modelling still exists in the literature.

This paper examines one area where errors frequently arise, in the means of handling incommensurability in the GP. That is, coping with objectives that are measured in different units. Whilst many different means and techniques have been proposed for the resolution of incommensurability, the actual ‘best’ method is still an area of contention. However, the aim of this paper is to bring into reach of the practitioner practical means for dealing with incommensurabilty in GP, rather than proving one method superior to the others. Consequently, all the proposed methods are outlined in this paper. Their scope and robustness as well as extension to other GP variants is discussed. A hybrid algorithm which semi-automates the procedure of choosing a method is detailed.