The interactive step trade-off method (ISTM) for multiobjective optimization

A new method to solve multiobjective optimization problems (MOP’s), called the interactive step trade-off method (ISTM), is proposed here. With the help of an auxiliarly problem AP(∈^t’-¹), the preferred solutions of MOP’s will be found on their efficient solution faces in ISTM. Using local trade-off information presented by the analyst, the decisionmaker (DM) makes decisions step by step, which heuristically directs the analyst to look for efficient solutions of MOP’s, along preference directions, in proper step sizes, until the preferred solutions are found. The interaction in the method is practical, clear, and easy to understand. The method may be used in the design of decision support systems in such fields as the production management of industrial enterprises.