Decision support for target-based resource allocation of public services in multiunit and multilevel systems

This paper is concerned with the problem of resource allocation and target setting in the provision of public services. The paper develops a network-based representation of multi-level resource management with equity, efficiency, and effectiveness being recognised as the fundamental objectives of the system. On the modelling side, the proposed method combines data envelopment analysis and goal programming formulations integrated within an interactive planning framework. An illustrative application on fire departments is used to show the applicability of the method developed to assist the resource allocation process.