Publisher's Synopsis
This book develops an operational framework for planning which integrates the concepts of values, objectives, criteria, preferences, conflicts and decisions. In particular, it provides guidelines for how to choose between alternative actions so as to obtain the best balance between the multiple criteria we choose to represent our objectives and underlying values.;The book is intended for all who are interested in the theory and practice of planning itself as a purposeful activity in social systems. A major target group consists of those researchers and practitioners who are attempting to integrate "soft" and "hard" systems approaches to planning and in particular, those interested in relating multiple criteria perspectives to strategic planning and ethics. Those who have a background in management, economics or operations research will also be relevant target audiences.;Although not specifically developed as a textbook, the book will be useful at the undergraduate level for students of operations research, engineering, economics, business administration and sociology. The book will also be useful at the graduate level as a thought-expanding, critical synthesis of multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) and planning.
