Simple additive weighting is a well-known method for scoring and ranking alternative options based on multiple attributes. However, the pitfalls associated with this approach are not widely appreciated. For example, the apparently innocuous step of normalizing the various attribute data in order...

This paper presents a way of modelling relationships between multiple dependent and multiple independent variables. The method involves fitting coefficients to functions of these two sets of variables such that the resulting ‘aggregate’ functions have maximum correlation. The inclusion of...

Consider a set of decision-making units (DMUs, e.g. branches, departments, firms) which employ a variety of resources to produce multiple outputs. The units being compared may be in the public sector e.g. health or education, so that the outputs and inputs need not be measured in monetary terms....