Subjective approach to the determination of criteria weights

This paper presents the methods of the subjective approach in determining the criteria weights. The compensatory and noncompensatory methods for determining the criteria weights are briefly summarized. Determining the criteria weight using pairwise comparisons and rankings is elaborated in detail. Possible ways of determining the criteria weight in a group environment are presented in the last part of the paper. A subjective approach includes an impact of the decision maker on the criteria weights, and therefore on the final solution of multicriteria problems. In contrast to the objective approach, some methods of the subjective approach do not require the existence of a decision matrix. The main aim of this paper is a systematic review of possible ways of determining the criteria weights by the decision maker or more participants in the decision process.