Using the FITradeoff method to solve a shopping mall location problem in the northeastern countryside of Brazil

Abstract

This paper presents a practical case involving a shopping mall location problem in the northeast countryside of Brazil. In this problem, conflicting objectives have been expressed in terms of seven criteria. Then, ten cities of the northeastern countryside have been selected to compose the space of actions. The problem plays a special role since Brazil is a big country that requires investments in the countryside. Thus, the shopping mall aims to stimulate economic growth in the respective region. In the study, this multi-objective problem is solved using the FITradeoff method. In FITradeoff, the combination of the paradigms of holistic evaluation and elicitation by decomposition in preference modeling are well explored, bringing different perspectives for the decision-maker during the decision process.

On the use of data analysis and OR modelling in MCDM problems: a case analysis – a rejoinder to the paper by Sousa Ribeiro et al

“…This, exactly, is the situation with the study and data reported in Sousa Ribeiro et al (2021). Side by side with effective performance of the procedure, a set of data is obtained, which also has a definite value in itself.…”

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Taking as an example the very interesting and motivating paper by Sousa Ribeiro et al (2021) an attempt is made of providing a couple of insights into the decision making process from the point of view of the potentially helpful aspects of data analysis and OR-related modelling. These are just hints and suggestions, meant primarily to emphasise the multifaceted character of the decision making situations and processes, especially when concerning more complex issues.

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