Research
I am interested in the process and methods to conduct Assessment of Alternatives (AA) based on Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis/Aiding (MCDA). AA consists in the comparison of options, called alternatives, to score, rank, classify or cluster them to recommend the best compromise. MCDA is a process that leads AA by identifying the evaluation criteria, eliciting the preferences of the stakeholders and aggregating the information to provide a comprehensive evaluation for each target alternative.
The figure* below provides a rather comprehensive overview of my research strategy and outcomes. The funding I received along the years is also included in the top right.
The main application areas of my research include nature-based solutions (NBS), materials, processes, energy systems and technologies assessment.
The frameworks that I use include life cycle-based sustainability, resilience, risk assessment and trade-offs analysis.
Some of the tools I employ:
Decision hierarchies
Preferences' elicitation methods
Computer-based performance and impact assessment modeling
Mathematical aggregation operators
Research methods used include:
MCDA methods from three main families, i.e., Value/Utility Theory, Outranking (e.g., ELECTRE, PROMETHEE), Rough Sets Approaches (e.g., Decision rules)
Predictions based on expert knowledge and modelling
Statistical analyses (e.g., reliability, relative importance, regression models, uncertainty and sensitivity analysis)
Literature reviews