Overview

The 7 MP tools, introduced in Chapter 7, are invaluable in analyzing and interpreting qualitative and verbal data. A typical challenge in such an analysis is prioritizing various tasks and characteristics identified in affinity and tree diagrams. This can be done using prioritization matrices. However, they have limitations in dealing with high-level complexities. This problem can be obviated by using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), which helps you prioritize complex architectural and design issues in the software development process. AHP is particularly applicable in QFD, presented in Chapter 11. AHP and its supporting software, Expert Choice (EC), can handle much higher levels of complexities than the tools introduced in Chapter 7. In addition to solutions facilitated by EC, this chapter also illustrates two known approximations to AHP solutions using manual calculations. Manual calculations can be used to solve relatively less-complex problems. They are presented in this chapter to illustrate the first principles and the steps involved in AHP. We emphasize EC as a powerful companion to AHP.

This chapter was written by Ernest H. Forman of George Washington University, along with Bijay K. Jayaswal and Peter C. Patton.

Chapter Outline

• Prioritization, Complexity, and the Analytic Hierarchy Process

• Multiobjective Decision-Making and AHP

• Case Study 8.1 Solution Using Expert Choice

• Approximations to AHP with Manual Calculations

• Conclusion

• Key Points

• Additional Resources

• Internet Exercises

• Review Questions

• Discussion Questions and Projects

• Problems

• Endnotes