A Framework for Group Decision Using a MCDA Model: Sharing, Aggregating or Comparing Individual Information?

This article proposes a framework for group decision procedures which use A MCDA model. The framework is based on three elementary procedures—sharing, aggregating and comparing—which define the way in which the views of individuals are brought together with the aim of achieving a group decision. The framework refers to: (i) the main elements of a MCDA model, namely the aggregation method, the alternatives, the criteria, the evaluations and the weights, (ii) the extent to which these elements are individual or common to the group and, (Hi) the use of the three procedures—sharing, aggregating and comparing—to obtain and use these elements. The framework allows us to compare and contrast different ways of working with MCDA methods from a technical and a sociological perspective. The discussion highlights issues relating to process management, facilitation, time management and problem structuring.