Dynamic decision problem structuring

This paper develops a conceptualization of decision problem structuring which synthesizes a number of models and approaches cited in the decision‐making literature in general and the multi‐criteria literature in particular. The approach advocates a dynamic interaction between criteria and alternatives as a decision‐maker understands his preferences and expands the set of alternatives. This approach endeavours to bridge the gap between prescriptive and descriptive decision problem structuring. It is prescriptive in its orientation, recommending an approach based on earlier prescriptive work. However, the approach is also validated empirically, based on the descriptive decision‐making literature and reported case studies of actual decision‐making.