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Devarsh Ukani

Devarsh Ukani

Co-Founder @ INDI TECHNOLOGY | AI & Product Engineering | Helping Businesses Build & Scale Software Products

Comparative study of different MCDM Techniques

4 min readMay 27, 2023

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Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) is a popular technique used in decision-making processes that involve multiple criteria. MCDM techniques are used to evaluate and rank alternatives based on different criteria, which can be quantitative or qualitative. In this blog, we will discuss a comparative study of different MCDM techniques.

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Decision Making

Our team has worked on finding the optimal incremental clustering algorithm. during the research period we have done a comparative analysis of the different MCDM Techniques to find out which will be appropriate algorithm in our case. we mainly considered AHP, TOPSIS, and ELECTRE

Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP)

AHP is one of the most widely used MCDM techniques. It is a structured approach that breaks down complex decisions into smaller, more manageable parts. AHP involves creating a hierarchy of criteria and alternatives and then comparing them pairwise to determine their relative importance. The pairwise comparisons are done using a scale from 1 to 9, where 1 represents equal importance and 9 represents extreme importance. The results of the pairwise comparisons are then used to calculate the weights for each criterion and alternative.

One advantage of AHP is that it provides a clear and structured framework for decision-making. It also allows decision-makers to consider both quantitative and qualitative criteria in their evaluations. However, one disadvantage of AHP is that it can be time-consuming and complex to implement.

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Basic hierarchical structure of the AHP

Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS)

TOPSIS is another popular MCDM technique that is used to rank alternatives based on their similarity to an ideal solution. The ideal solution is determined by the best values for each criterion, and the distance between each alternative and the ideal solution is calculated. The alternative with the shortest distance from the ideal solution is considered the best option.

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One advantage of TOPSIS is that it provides a simple and intuitive way to evaluate alternatives based on their proximity to an ideal solution. It also allows decision-makers to consider both quantitative and qualitative criteria in their evaluations. However, one disadvantage of TOPSIS is that it assumes that all criteria are equally important, which may not always be the case.

Working steps and Graphical representation of TOPSIS

Elimination Et Choix Traduisant la Realite (ELECTRE)

ELECTRE is an MCDM technique that is used to rank alternatives based on their ability to satisfy a set of criteria. It involves creating a set of decision rules that are used to eliminate alternatives that do not meet certain criteria and then ranking the remaining alternatives based on their ability to satisfy the remaining criteria.

One advantage of ELECTRE is that it allows decision-makers to consider both quantitative and qualitative criteria in their evaluations. It also provides a flexible framework for decision-making, as decision rules can be adjusted based on the specific needs of the decision-maker. However, one disadvantage of ELECTRE is that it can be complex and time-consuming to implement.

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Best Alternatives of A & B using ELECTRE

Comparison Table

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Comparison of AHP, TOPSIS and ELECTRE

After the extensive research conducted by our team we came to conclusion that the AHP Technique will be the most optimal to solve the complex problem and It was best accuracy for the use case.

In conclusion, there are several MCDM techniques available for decision-makers to use when evaluating multiple criteria. Each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of technique will depend on the specific needs of the decision-maker. AHP, TOPSIS, and ELECTRE are just a few examples of MCDM techniques available, and each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. By understanding these techniques and their applications, decision-makers can make more informed decisions when faced with complex decisions involving multiple criteria.

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Devarsh Ukani
Devarsh Ukani

Written by Devarsh Ukani

Co-Founder @ INDI TECHNOLOGY | AI & Product Engineering | Helping Businesses Build & Scale Software Products