A Graphical Screening Approach for Group Decisions Based on the Extended Case-Based Distance Method

For multiple criteria decision problems, screening is a helpful process for reducing a larger set of alternatives to a smaller one containing the best alternatives so that decision makers (DMs) can concentrate on evaluating alternatives within a smaller set. This study proposes a graphical approach based on the extended case-based distance method to assist individual as well as group DMs in screening and observing the case distances between alternatives and selected cases. Benchmark cases can thus be examined. The screening results of all DMs and the collective group decisions can be simultaneously observed on the same plane. An individual DM can also examine his/her own screening results and those of the group to identify the differences between individual judgments and the group's collective opinions. An interactive screening procedure for group decisions is represented to provide flexibility so that DMs can check and adjust their preferences iteratively.