Quantitative multicriteria analysis

Quantitative multicriteria analysis defines and applies weighting factors to the environmental profile to permit aggregation of the quantitative part of the inventory table into an unambiguous single score. This score is then used to rate different product alternatives. The advantages with this method are that the decision process is easily reproducible and that product comparison is simplified. The risk is that the method of aggregation may imply a scientific accuracy that not necessarily exists. Qualitative aspects of the impacts can not be included in the obtained score. These must be evaluated separately. 

Wienke D, Lucasius C, Ehrlich M, Kateman G (1993) Multicriteria target vector optimization of analytical procedures using a genetic algorithm. Part II. Polyoptimization of the photometric calibration graph of dry glucose sensors for quantitative clinical analysis. Anal Chim Acta 271 253... 

Qualitative multicriteria analysis is more informal than quantitative analysis. The assessment and rating of different product alternatives is made by an expert panel. The principal advantage of this method is that it is likely to result in a judgement. In addition it allows the inclusion of quantitative aspects in the decision process. However, it is not well suited to comparisons of more than a few products, since the amount of information becomes overwhelming. 

A multi-criteria decision analysis tool - IDS Multicriteria Assessor is further used to deal with the multi-criteria decision of choosing among several strategies for managing 12 kV MV air insulated switch-disconnectors. The software allows for both quantitative and qualitative information with rmcer-tainties and subjectivity - thus uncertainty in data and imprecision in judgments. 

ABSTRACT Pipelines are considered one of the safest means of transport of natural gas. However, when an accident occurs, can generate catastrophic consequences in terms of human, environmental and financial aspects. In this context, this paper presents a quantitative analysis, based on the application of a multicriteria decision model for risk assessment in natural gas pipelines, prioritizing pipeline sections according to the risk value obtained. 

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