Prioritization matrices have limitations in dealing with complexities associated with multicriteria decision problems. This can be obviated by using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP).
AHP and its supporting software, Expert Choice (EC), can handle much higher levels of complexity and have applications as a multiobjective decision technique involving both qualitative and quantitative factors. It has important applications in the software development process, including Quality Function Deployment, presented in Chapter 11. AHP uses ratio scale measures that can be used to rank alternatives and for optimal allocation of resources.
AHP can be used for decision-making in various phases of the software development process involving multiple objectives. It can be especially applicable in the evaluation of complex system designs involving software, hardware, and humanware that can include hundreds of system quality indicators. AHP can also be used to measure and manage complexity in large software development projects.
This chapter illustrated prioritization of alternatives in a multiobjective decision situation using AHP. It discussed the limitations of the two manual solutions and emphasized Expert Choice software as a powerful tool in AHP deployment.
Chapter 23 describes how AHP is used in determining an optimum portfolio of IT projects using the resource aligner extension to Expert Choice.
