A multiple criteria model for new telecommunication service planning

The strategic planning of telecommunications networks, namely concerning the introduction of new service offerings, is a problem which involves different and conflicting aspects. Interactive multiple criteria methods are well suited to tackle these complex problems because they allow the intervention of the decision maker in the solution search process. This paper aims to present a multiple criteria linear programming model for modernization planning of telecommunictions networks. The main features of a decision aid computational tool, the fundamental component of which is a method base which takes advantage of the combination of different types of interactive procedures, will be described. Its potentialities to provide decision support in the evaluation of network modernization strategies will be illustrated through an example.