A methodology for selection problems with multiple, conflicting objectives and both qualitative and quantitative criteria

This paper presents a methodology to assist decision-makers in selecting from a finite number of alternatives when there is more than one objective and both qualitative and quantitative factors must be considered. The methodology uses fuzzy quality function deployment to convert qualitative information into quantitative parameters and then combines this data with other quantitative data to parameterize a multiobjective mathematical programming model. A slightly modified version of preemptive goal programming is used to resolve the model in such a way that the decision-maker is provided a number of near optimal solutions from which a final decision can be made. An example is presented to illustrate the methodology.