Interactive multiple criteria optimization for capital budgeting.

Abstract

This thesis presents a capital budgeting problem faced by a major telecommunications company. The purpose of this thesis is to address the capital budgeting problem in order to establish a framework for the measurement and evaluation of alternative capital allocation decisions which are compatible with the mission of the company. The solution method follows three major avenues of optimization: multiple criteria, multiple constraints and interactivity. The problem is solved using the Analytic Hierarchy Process to obtain an initial solution which is then improved by an interactive method allowing users to direct the search for an acceptable allocation. The method is implemented by a decision support system hinging on a graphic user interface. The support system has been used by practitioners to evaluate alternatives of a real problem. Results and enhancements are discussed.