A multiple criteria linguistic decision model (MCLDM) for human decision making

This paper presents a human-nature-like decision model, which makes the decision making process easier for human beings. The model, which is called the multiple criteria linguistic decision model (MCLDM), can be used to evaluate a set of alternatives over various criteria by using linguistic variables and then produces a ‘linguistic decision output’ for selecting the best alternative. The MCLDM uses fuzzy set theory to deal with the imprecision measurement of decision makers’ subjective opinions, which usually exist in the decision making process. The decision model is originally designed for the screening of research projects, however, it can also be applied to problems such as program evaluation, project performance evaluation and many other management decisions.