Fuzzy AHP assessment of water management plans

Abstract

There are two mainstreams when using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). One is the standard applications of crisp distributive and ideal mode versions. The other is characterised by fuzzification of the AHP methodology and by attempts to better tackle inherently uncertain and imprecise decision processes with quantitative and qualitative data. The latter is characterised by different approaches to fuzzificating the decision problem; the way of conducting judgment and evaluating process; and finally, in synthesising the results and manipulating fuzzy numbers to devise priorities for the decision alternatives. This paper presents a fuzzy methodology for solving fully structured decision problems with criteria, sub-criteria and alternatives. It follows the logic of AHP in a simple and straightforward manner, efficiently aggregates criteria and sub-criteria into unique hierarchical level and applies a total integral method for comparing decision alternatives. The proposed methodology has been used for the assessment of water management plans in part of the Paraguacu River Basin in Brazil.