With the increased competition of modern economy and globalization,consumer creation which based on the analysis of consumer behavior was more and more attentioned and respected by business.Based on the meaning and ch...With the increased competition of modern economy and globalization,consumer creation which based on the analysis of consumer behavior was more and more attentioned and respected by business.Based on the meaning and characteristics of agricultural product consumer creation,index system of value model of agricultural product consumer creation was put forward through analytical hierarchy process(AHP).The weights of the indicators and related indicators of impact on the value were analyzed,and value models of agricultural product consumer creation were constructed to provide ideas for development of agricultural product consumer market and research of consumer value.Consumer creation was constructed to provide ideas for development of agricultural product consumer market and research of consumer value.展开更多
Currently, the comprehensive assessment of the communication troops’ camp planning project is primarily qualitative, with limited quantitative evaluation. Drawing upon the relevant spirit of the Military Commission’...Currently, the comprehensive assessment of the communication troops’ camp planning project is primarily qualitative, with limited quantitative evaluation. Drawing upon the relevant spirit of the Military Commission’s documents and leveraging the author’s own work experience in branch offices, this article thoroughly explores the factors influencing the comprehensive assessment of the project and proposes quantitative representation methods for these factors. Utilizing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a hierarchical structure model and judgment matrix for the evaluation factors of the communication troops’ camp construction planning project are constructed, enabling the determination of the weightage of each factor. This provides a certain level of support and reference for the project approval and management by branch offices, while also offering valuable insights for the approval and management of camp planning and construction projects in other types of troops and battlefield projects.展开更多
The selection of a landfill site is considered as a complicated task because this process is based on many factors and restrictions. For Al-Qasim Qadhaa, which is situated in the southern part of the Babylon Governora...The selection of a landfill site is considered as a complicated task because this process is based on many factors and restrictions. For Al-Qasim Qadhaa, which is situated in the southern part of the Babylon Governorate, Iraq, there is no landfill site in that area that conforms to the scientific criteria for selecting sites for landfill. For this reason, 15 criteria were adopted in this study (groundwater depth, rivers, soil types, agriculture lands use, land use, elevation, slope, gas pipelines, oil pipelines, power lines, roads, railways, urban centers, villages and archaeological sites) using GIS (geographic information system), which has a large ability to manage input data. In addition, the AHP (analytical hierarchy process) method was used to derive the relative weightings for each criterion using pair-wise comparison. To obtain the suitability index for candidate landfill sites, a weighted linear combination method was used. After combining these methods, two suitable candidate landfill sites, with areas of 2.766 km2 and 2.055 km2, respectively, were found to satisfy the scientific and environmental requirements. The area of these sites can accommodate solid waste from 2020 until 2030 based on the required area, which was 0.702 km2.展开更多
This paper determines benchmarking criteria from the actors' point of view, who are involved in benchmarking processes within four Libyan industrial companies (LICs). It also describes an application of the analyti...This paper determines benchmarking criteria from the actors' point of view, who are involved in benchmarking processes within four Libyan industrial companies (LICs). It also describes an application of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), which can help an organization to determine its benchmarking criteria. It presents a structured hierarchy for assessing the key capabilities using the AHP. The hierarchy is illustrated using the four main criteria that manufacturing companies will consider when carrying out benchmarking. AHP and benchmarking techniques make the implementation and analysis studies more effective, easy, and applicable to companies. Further, AHP is used to calculate the relative weights of criteria, sub-criteria, and specific sub-criteria, to prioritize them, and finally to select the important benchmarking criteria within each of the four companies investigated. The overall findings suggest that quality control is the most important criterion considered to be benchmarked in companies Q and R. Meanwhile, cost control is considered as the most important criterion to be benchmarked in companies S and T1.展开更多
The paper shows a proposition of metrics for measuring the complexity of the business organization and business software. The metrics is based on a subjective estimation of complexity of the elements from a part of th...The paper shows a proposition of metrics for measuring the complexity of the business organization and business software. The metrics is based on a subjective estimation of complexity of the elements from a part of the structure of business organization or business software in relation to other elements from the observed part. Estimation is performed based on the measuring scale for comparison of complexity of elements, and reaching a final conclusion on the complexity of elements in relation to other elements, through the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Defined in this manner, the metrics represents a unique metrics for measuring the complexity of elements of business organization and business software, which enables their comparison. The paper also presents a short overview of existing metrics for measuring the complexity of business organization and business software.展开更多
The purpose of this study is to review and demonstrate how analytic hierarchy process (AHP) can be employed to determine earnings quality. The AHP technique can make the analysis studies more effective, easy, and ap...The purpose of this study is to review and demonstrate how analytic hierarchy process (AHP) can be employed to determine earnings quality. The AHP technique can make the analysis studies more effective, easy, and applicable to companies to calculate the relative weights of each dimension, sub-dimension, and specific sub-dimension of earnings quality. A common understanding of earnings quality is difficult to define and even more difficult to measure precisely. In addition to this, the earnings quality is influenced by factors which are often intangible and immeasurable and, as such, when assessing earnings quality, judgments will be largely subjective. Further, earnings quality is related to business concepts or practices and affected by other factors such as the nature and source of earnings. In relation to this, earnings quality would be directly influenced by the conservatism of the chosen methods. However, earnings quality relates to the persistence of earnings and to the likelihood of cash realization on reported eamings. Overall, the results presented from the paramorphic model under AHP are meant to be descriptive of the decision process of five investment analysts within three different companies. The results in this study offer valuable insights into how a small population of investment analysts actually decides the relative importance of various earnings quality dimensions.展开更多
To improve the inconsistency in the analytic hierarchy process(AHP), a new method based on marginal optimization theory is proposed. During the improving process, this paper regards the reduction of consistency ratio(...To improve the inconsistency in the analytic hierarchy process(AHP), a new method based on marginal optimization theory is proposed. During the improving process, this paper regards the reduction of consistency ratio(CR) as benefit, and the maximum modification compared to the original pairwise comparison matrix(PCM) as cost, then the improvement of consistency is transformed to a benefit/cost analysis problem. According to the maximal marginal effect principle, the elements of PCM are modified by a fixed increment(or decrement) step by step till the consistency ratio becomes acceptable, which can ensure minimum adjustment to the original PCM so that the decision makers’ judgment is preserved as much as possible. The correctness of the proposed method is proved mathematically by theorem. Firstly, the marginal benefit/cost ratio is calculated for each single element of the PCM when it has been modified by a fixed increment(or decrement).Then, modification to the element with the maximum marginal benefit/cost ratio is accepted. Next, the marginal benefit/cost ratio is calculated again upon the revised matrix, and followed by choosing the modification to the element with the maximum marginal benefit/cost ratio. The process of calculating marginal effect and choosing the best modified element is repeated for each revised matrix till acceptable consistency is reached, i.e., CR<0.1. Finally,illustrative examples show the proposed method is more effective and better in preserving the original comparison information than existing methods.展开更多
This study examined public attitudes concerning the value of outdoor spaces which people use daily. Two successive analyses were performed based on data from common residents and college students in the city of Hangzh...This study examined public attitudes concerning the value of outdoor spaces which people use daily. Two successive analyses were performed based on data from common residents and college students in the city of Hangzhou, China. First, citizens registered various items constituting desirable values of residential outdoor spaces through a preliminary questionnaire. The result proposed three general attributes (functional, aesthetic and ecological) and ten specific qualities of residential outdoor spaces. An analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was applied to an interview survey in order to clarify the weights among these attributes and qualities. Second, principal factors were extracted from the ten specific qualities with principal component analysis (PCA) for both the common case and the campus case. In addition, the variations of respondents’ groups were classified with cluster analysis (CA) using the results of the PCA. The results of the AHP application found that the public prefers the functional attribute, rather than the aesthetic attribute. The latter is always viewed as the core value of open spaces in the eyes of architects and designers. Fur-thermore, comparisons of ten specific qualities showed that the public prefers the open spaces that can be utilized conveniently and easily for group activities, because such spaces keep an active lifestyle of neighborhood communication, which is also seen to protect human-regarding residential environments. Moreover, different groups of respondents diverge largely in terms of gender, age, behavior and preference.展开更多
Collision avoidance decision-making models of multiple agents in virtual driving environment are studied. Based on the behavioral characteristics and hierarchical structure of the collision avoidance decision-making i...Collision avoidance decision-making models of multiple agents in virtual driving environment are studied. Based on the behavioral characteristics and hierarchical structure of the collision avoidance decision-making in real life driving, delphi approach and mathematical statistics method are introduced to construct pair-wise comparison judgment matrix of collision avoidance decision choices to each collision situation. Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is adopted to establish the agents' collision avoidance decision-making model. To simulate drivers' characteristics, driver factors are added to categorize driving modes into impatient mode, normal mode, and the cautious mode. The results show that this model can simulate human's thinking process, and the agents in the virtual environment can deal with collision situations and make decisions to avoid collisions without intervention. The model can also reflect diversity and uncertainly of real life driving behaviors, and solves the multi-objective, multi-choice ranking priority problem in multi-vehicle collision scenarios. This collision avoidance model of multi-agents model is feasible and effective, and can provide richer and closer-to-life virtual scene for driving simulator, reflecting real-life traffic environment more truly, this model can also promote the practicality of driving simulator.展开更多
Landslides are prevalent,regular,and expensive hazards in the Karakoram Highway(KKH)region.The KKH connects Pakistan with China in the present China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC)context.This region has not only imm...Landslides are prevalent,regular,and expensive hazards in the Karakoram Highway(KKH)region.The KKH connects Pakistan with China in the present China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC)context.This region has not only immense economic importance but also ecological significance.The purpose of the study was to map the landslide-prone areas along KKH using two different techniquesAnalytical Hierarchy Process(AHP)and Scoops 3 D model.The causative parameters for running AHP include the lithology,presence of thrust,land use land cover,precipitation,and Digital Elevation Model(DEM)derived variables(slope,curvature,aspect,and elevation).The AHP derived final landslide susceptibility map was classified into four zones,i.e.,low,moderate,high,and extremely high.Over 80%of the study area falls under the moderate(43%)and high(40%)landslide susceptible zones.To assess the slope stability of the study area,the Scoops 3 D model was used by integrating with the earthquake loading data.The results of the limit equilibrium analysis categorized the area into four groups(low,moderate,high,and extremely high mass)of slope failure.The areas around Main Mantle Thrust(MMT)including Dubair,Jijal,and Kohistan regions,had high volumes of potential slope failures.The results from AHP and Scoops 3 D techniques were validated with the landslides inventory record of the Geological Survey of Pakistan and Google Earth.The results from both the techniques showed similar output that coincides with the known landslides areas.However,Scoops 3 D provides not only susceptible zones but also the range of volume of the potential slope failures.Further,these techniques could be used in other mountainous areas,which could help in the landslide mitigation measures.展开更多
Owing to the rapid development of microgrids(MGs)and growing applications of renewable energy resources,multiobjective optimal dispatch of MGs need to be studied in detail.In this study,a multiobjective optimal dispat...Owing to the rapid development of microgrids(MGs)and growing applications of renewable energy resources,multiobjective optimal dispatch of MGs need to be studied in detail.In this study,a multiobjective optimal dispatch model is developed for a standalone MG composed of wind turbines,photovoltaics,diesel engine unit,load,and battery energy storage system.The economic cost,environmental concerns,and power supply consistency are expressed via subobjectives with varying priorities.Then,the analytic hierarchy process algorithm is employed to reasonably specify the weight coefficients of the subobjectives.The quantum particle swarm optimization algorithm is thereafter employed as a solution to achieve optimal dispatch of the MG.Finally,the validity of the proposed model and solution methodology are con firmed by case studies.This study provides refere nee for mathematical model of multiojective optimizati on of MG and can be widely used in current research field.展开更多
Value analysis of grain production influencing factors is a complex decision problem. This paper introduced a modified Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) accumulation factor, namely Solving Weight by AHP's Accumulati...Value analysis of grain production influencing factors is a complex decision problem. This paper introduced a modified Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) accumulation factor, namely Solving Weight by AHP's Accumulation Factor Sequence Evaluating Data. We used the arithmetical average to replace the expert marking, so that the possible decision mistakes by the subjective judgments could be avoided. We computed the case with this method, which obtained attribute value of 17 influencing factors of the potential food production in Heilongjiang Province, and the result of which was reasonable展开更多
Test of consistency is critical for the analytic hierarchy process(AHP) methodology. When a pairwise comparison matrix(PCM) fails the consistency test, the decision maker(DM) needs to make revisions. The state of the ...Test of consistency is critical for the analytic hierarchy process(AHP) methodology. When a pairwise comparison matrix(PCM) fails the consistency test, the decision maker(DM) needs to make revisions. The state of the art focuses on changing a single entry or creating a new matrix based on the original inconsistent matrix so that the modified matrix can satisfy the consistency requirement. However, we have noticed that the reason that causes inconsistency is not only numerical inconsistency, but also logical inconsistency, which may play a more important role in the whole inconsistency. Therefore, to realize satisfactory consistency, first of all, we should change some entries that form a directed circuit to make the matrix logically consistent, and then adjust other entries within acceptable deviations to make the matrix numerically consistent while preserving most of the original comparison information. In this paper, we firstly present some definitions and theories, based on which two effective methods are provided to identify directed circuits. Four optimization models are proposed to adjust the original inconsistent matrix. Finally, illustrative examples and comparison studies show the effectiveness and feasibility of our method.展开更多
Many debris flows have occurred in the areas surrounding the epicenter of the Wenchuan earthquake. Susceptibility assessment of debris flows in this area is especially important for disaster prevention and mitigation....Many debris flows have occurred in the areas surrounding the epicenter of the Wenchuan earthquake. Susceptibility assessment of debris flows in this area is especially important for disaster prevention and mitigation. This paper studies one of the worst hit areas, the Subao river valley, and the susceptibility assessment of debris flows is performed based on field surveys and remote sensing interpretation. By investigating the formation conditions of debris flows in the valley, the following assessment factors are selected: mixture density of landslides and rock avalanches, distance to the seismogenic fault, stratum lithology, ground roughness, and hillside angle. The weights of the assessment factors are determined by the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method. Each of the assessment factors is further divided into five grades. Then, the assessment model is built using the multifactor superposition method to assess the debris flow susceptibility. Based on the assessment results, the Subao river valley is divided into three areas: high susceptibility areas, medium susceptibility areas, and low susceptibility areas. The high susceptibility areas are concentrated in the middle of the valley, accounting for 17.6%of the valley area. The medium susceptibility areas are in the middle and lower reaches, most of which are located on both sides of the high susceptibility areas and account for 45.3% of the valley area. The remainders are clas-sified as low susceptibility areas. The results of the model are in accordance with the actual debris flow events that occurred after the earthquake in the valley, confirming that the proposed model is capable of assessing the debris flow susceptibility. The results can also provide guidance for reconstruction planning and debris flow prevention in the Subao river valley.展开更多
Recently, plant construction throughout the world, including nuclear power plant construction, has grown significantly. The scale of Korea’s nuclear power plant construction in particular, has increased gradually sin...Recently, plant construction throughout the world, including nuclear power plant construction, has grown significantly. The scale of Korea’s nuclear power plant construction in particular, has increased gradually since it won a contract for a nuclear power plant construction project in the United Arab Emirates in 2009. However, time and monetary resources have been lost in some nuclear power plant construction sites due to lack of risk management ability. The need to prevent losses at nuclear power plant construction sites has become more urgent because it demands professional skills and large-scale resources. Therefore, in this study, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) were applied in order to make comparisons between decision-making methods, to assess the potential risks at nuclear power plant construction sites. To suggest the appropriate choice between two decision-making methods, a survey was carried out. From the results, the importance and the priority of 24 risk factors, classified by process, cost, safety, and quality, were analyzed. The FAHP was identified as a suitable method for risk assessment of nuclear power plant construction, compared with risk assessment using the AHP. These risk factors will be able to serve as baseline data for risk management in nuclear power plant construction projects.展开更多
Today's banking institutions spread their product and service line on a daily basis. This effort to increase competitiveness is also creating an overstocked supply for existing and new clients. Not every product is m...Today's banking institutions spread their product and service line on a daily basis. This effort to increase competitiveness is also creating an overstocked supply for existing and new clients. Not every product is meant for every client and aggressive sales strategies tend to repel clients which can cause serious problems in long-term client-bank relations. This paper will analyze savings and investments products along with their adaptation and modulation regarding client needs. Accordingly, banks will be able to offer particular products to clients with specific needs and wishes. The analytic hierarchy process, or simply AHP method, represents a process which will be able to transform client's demands and affinities into a customized offer. It is an easy-to-implement method used in any step of the decision-making process; the process must have multiple alternatives and each of them carries specific characteristics. The decision maker ranks all the characteristics and simultaneously all the alternatives, according to his affinities forming a final decision. This paper will explain how banks will be able to adapt to client needs and wishes in the future using the AHP method.展开更多
[ Objective] The research aimed to evaluate ecological vulnerability of the vegetation in the Subei Lake watershed based on analytic hierarchy process (AHP). [ Method] From actual situation of the vegetation ecology...[ Objective] The research aimed to evaluate ecological vulnerability of the vegetation in the Subei Lake watershed based on analytic hierarchy process (AHP). [ Method] From actual situation of the vegetation ecology in the Subei Lake watershed, by the established evaluation index system of vegetation ecology, based on AHP, indicator weight at each layer was determined. Comprehensive index method was used to calculate ecological fragility degree of the vegetation in each evaluation unit to evaluate ecological vulnerability of the vegetation. [ Result] Ecological vulnera- bility of the vegetation was divided into four levels, such as extremely fragile, highly fragile, moderately fragile and lowly fragile in the Subei Lake watershed. The extremely fragile area, where buried depth of the groundwater level was generally less than 1.0 meter, distributed in beach zones near the Subei Lake, and its relationship between vegetation and groundwater was close. The lowly fragile areas scattered in the ridge zone around the Subei Lake watershed, where buried depth of the groundwater level was 10.0 -40.0 meters, and their relationship between vegetation growth and groundwater depth was not obvious. Buried depth of groundwater had the most sensitive influence on vegetation ecology, and it was the key factor between utilization of groundwater resources and eco-environment protection in the study area. E Conclusion] The researches provided scientific evidence for regional eco-environment protection, rational development and utilization of water resources, and coordinated development of economy and society.展开更多
The solar bubble dryer (SBD) is a convenient and better option to traditional open sun drying commonly practiced by smallholder farmers in Ghana and other developing countries. However, to operate the SBD, one is face...The solar bubble dryer (SBD) is a convenient and better option to traditional open sun drying commonly practiced by smallholder farmers in Ghana and other developing countries. However, to operate the SBD, one is faced with the challenge of frequent mixing of grains using a rake to enhance uniform drying and prevent over-heating of the top-layer exposed to the sun. Additionally, condensation in the SBD can compromise the quality of grains during drying under humid conditions. In the present study, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to select an appropriate drying platform, tarpaulin, or elevated drying rack for maize drying in the SBD. Using the AHP, the elevated drying rack was chosen as a suitable platform for drying maize in the SBD. The SBD with the elevated drying racks was used to dry 270 kg of maize from a moisture content of 18.2% to 12.6% (w.w.b) within 6 hours compared to 11 hours for the same quantity of grains dried on the tarpaulin of the SBD to reach an MC of 12.5% (w.w.b). An average drying rate and moisture extraction rate of 0.93%/h and 2.88 kg/h were achieved with the elevated drying rack system compared to 0.52%/h and 1.60 kg/h when drying on the tarpaulin of the SBD. An average temperature of 44.6<span style="white-space:nowrap;">°</span>C recorded in the SBD was 9<span style="white-space:nowrap;">°</span>C more compared to the ambient temperature. The thermal efficiency of the SBD collector was determined as 36.2%. Drying grains with the elevated racks showed advantages of reduced drying time, improved airflow through the drying bed, and prevention of condensation, which occurs when drying on the tarpaulin of the SBD.展开更多
Recent research carried out in the public sector shows that outsourcing can indisputably bring many benefits to the organizations which master the art of devising, deploying and maintaining outsourcing relationships. ...Recent research carried out in the public sector shows that outsourcing can indisputably bring many benefits to the organizations which master the art of devising, deploying and maintaining outsourcing relationships. However, for many organizations, these benefits remain elusive, while outsourcing projects are usually accompanied by unexpected and often negative effects. The paper focuses on in-depth analysis of the current situation concerning outsourcing of information technology projects (IT-projects) in Slovenian public sector. Presented research initially analyses substantive, procedural and other relevant aspects of outsourcing and provides a set of applicable decision making criteria. Stemming from the analysis results, this paper eventually presents the development of a multi criteria decision-support model based on Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) which could facilitate enhanced evaluation, selection and implementation of IT outsourcing projects in the public sector.展开更多
基金Supported by Rural Development Research Center in Sichuan(2009CR2110921)~~
文摘With the increased competition of modern economy and globalization,consumer creation which based on the analysis of consumer behavior was more and more attentioned and respected by business.Based on the meaning and characteristics of agricultural product consumer creation,index system of value model of agricultural product consumer creation was put forward through analytical hierarchy process(AHP).The weights of the indicators and related indicators of impact on the value were analyzed,and value models of agricultural product consumer creation were constructed to provide ideas for development of agricultural product consumer market and research of consumer value.Consumer creation was constructed to provide ideas for development of agricultural product consumer market and research of consumer value.
文摘Currently, the comprehensive assessment of the communication troops’ camp planning project is primarily qualitative, with limited quantitative evaluation. Drawing upon the relevant spirit of the Military Commission’s documents and leveraging the author’s own work experience in branch offices, this article thoroughly explores the factors influencing the comprehensive assessment of the project and proposes quantitative representation methods for these factors. Utilizing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a hierarchical structure model and judgment matrix for the evaluation factors of the communication troops’ camp construction planning project are constructed, enabling the determination of the weightage of each factor. This provides a certain level of support and reference for the project approval and management by branch offices, while also offering valuable insights for the approval and management of camp planning and construction projects in other types of troops and battlefield projects.
文摘The selection of a landfill site is considered as a complicated task because this process is based on many factors and restrictions. For Al-Qasim Qadhaa, which is situated in the southern part of the Babylon Governorate, Iraq, there is no landfill site in that area that conforms to the scientific criteria for selecting sites for landfill. For this reason, 15 criteria were adopted in this study (groundwater depth, rivers, soil types, agriculture lands use, land use, elevation, slope, gas pipelines, oil pipelines, power lines, roads, railways, urban centers, villages and archaeological sites) using GIS (geographic information system), which has a large ability to manage input data. In addition, the AHP (analytical hierarchy process) method was used to derive the relative weightings for each criterion using pair-wise comparison. To obtain the suitability index for candidate landfill sites, a weighted linear combination method was used. After combining these methods, two suitable candidate landfill sites, with areas of 2.766 km2 and 2.055 km2, respectively, were found to satisfy the scientific and environmental requirements. The area of these sites can accommodate solid waste from 2020 until 2030 based on the required area, which was 0.702 km2.
文摘This paper determines benchmarking criteria from the actors' point of view, who are involved in benchmarking processes within four Libyan industrial companies (LICs). It also describes an application of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), which can help an organization to determine its benchmarking criteria. It presents a structured hierarchy for assessing the key capabilities using the AHP. The hierarchy is illustrated using the four main criteria that manufacturing companies will consider when carrying out benchmarking. AHP and benchmarking techniques make the implementation and analysis studies more effective, easy, and applicable to companies. Further, AHP is used to calculate the relative weights of criteria, sub-criteria, and specific sub-criteria, to prioritize them, and finally to select the important benchmarking criteria within each of the four companies investigated. The overall findings suggest that quality control is the most important criterion considered to be benchmarked in companies Q and R. Meanwhile, cost control is considered as the most important criterion to be benchmarked in companies S and T1.
文摘The paper shows a proposition of metrics for measuring the complexity of the business organization and business software. The metrics is based on a subjective estimation of complexity of the elements from a part of the structure of business organization or business software in relation to other elements from the observed part. Estimation is performed based on the measuring scale for comparison of complexity of elements, and reaching a final conclusion on the complexity of elements in relation to other elements, through the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Defined in this manner, the metrics represents a unique metrics for measuring the complexity of elements of business organization and business software, which enables their comparison. The paper also presents a short overview of existing metrics for measuring the complexity of business organization and business software.
文摘The purpose of this study is to review and demonstrate how analytic hierarchy process (AHP) can be employed to determine earnings quality. The AHP technique can make the analysis studies more effective, easy, and applicable to companies to calculate the relative weights of each dimension, sub-dimension, and specific sub-dimension of earnings quality. A common understanding of earnings quality is difficult to define and even more difficult to measure precisely. In addition to this, the earnings quality is influenced by factors which are often intangible and immeasurable and, as such, when assessing earnings quality, judgments will be largely subjective. Further, earnings quality is related to business concepts or practices and affected by other factors such as the nature and source of earnings. In relation to this, earnings quality would be directly influenced by the conservatism of the chosen methods. However, earnings quality relates to the persistence of earnings and to the likelihood of cash realization on reported eamings. Overall, the results presented from the paramorphic model under AHP are meant to be descriptive of the decision process of five investment analysts within three different companies. The results in this study offer valuable insights into how a small population of investment analysts actually decides the relative importance of various earnings quality dimensions.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(6160150161502521)
文摘To improve the inconsistency in the analytic hierarchy process(AHP), a new method based on marginal optimization theory is proposed. During the improving process, this paper regards the reduction of consistency ratio(CR) as benefit, and the maximum modification compared to the original pairwise comparison matrix(PCM) as cost, then the improvement of consistency is transformed to a benefit/cost analysis problem. According to the maximal marginal effect principle, the elements of PCM are modified by a fixed increment(or decrement) step by step till the consistency ratio becomes acceptable, which can ensure minimum adjustment to the original PCM so that the decision makers’ judgment is preserved as much as possible. The correctness of the proposed method is proved mathematically by theorem. Firstly, the marginal benefit/cost ratio is calculated for each single element of the PCM when it has been modified by a fixed increment(or decrement).Then, modification to the element with the maximum marginal benefit/cost ratio is accepted. Next, the marginal benefit/cost ratio is calculated again upon the revised matrix, and followed by choosing the modification to the element with the maximum marginal benefit/cost ratio. The process of calculating marginal effect and choosing the best modified element is repeated for each revised matrix till acceptable consistency is reached, i.e., CR<0.1. Finally,illustrative examples show the proposed method is more effective and better in preserving the original comparison information than existing methods.
文摘This study examined public attitudes concerning the value of outdoor spaces which people use daily. Two successive analyses were performed based on data from common residents and college students in the city of Hangzhou, China. First, citizens registered various items constituting desirable values of residential outdoor spaces through a preliminary questionnaire. The result proposed three general attributes (functional, aesthetic and ecological) and ten specific qualities of residential outdoor spaces. An analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was applied to an interview survey in order to clarify the weights among these attributes and qualities. Second, principal factors were extracted from the ten specific qualities with principal component analysis (PCA) for both the common case and the campus case. In addition, the variations of respondents’ groups were classified with cluster analysis (CA) using the results of the PCA. The results of the AHP application found that the public prefers the functional attribute, rather than the aesthetic attribute. The latter is always viewed as the core value of open spaces in the eyes of architects and designers. Fur-thermore, comparisons of ten specific qualities showed that the public prefers the open spaces that can be utilized conveniently and easily for group activities, because such spaces keep an active lifestyle of neighborhood communication, which is also seen to protect human-regarding residential environments. Moreover, different groups of respondents diverge largely in terms of gender, age, behavior and preference.
基金supported by National Basic Research Program (973 Program,No.2004CB719402)National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.60736019)Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province, China(No.Y105430).
文摘Collision avoidance decision-making models of multiple agents in virtual driving environment are studied. Based on the behavioral characteristics and hierarchical structure of the collision avoidance decision-making in real life driving, delphi approach and mathematical statistics method are introduced to construct pair-wise comparison judgment matrix of collision avoidance decision choices to each collision situation. Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is adopted to establish the agents' collision avoidance decision-making model. To simulate drivers' characteristics, driver factors are added to categorize driving modes into impatient mode, normal mode, and the cautious mode. The results show that this model can simulate human's thinking process, and the agents in the virtual environment can deal with collision situations and make decisions to avoid collisions without intervention. The model can also reflect diversity and uncertainly of real life driving behaviors, and solves the multi-objective, multi-choice ranking priority problem in multi-vehicle collision scenarios. This collision avoidance model of multi-agents model is feasible and effective, and can provide richer and closer-to-life virtual scene for driving simulator, reflecting real-life traffic environment more truly, this model can also promote the practicality of driving simulator.
文摘Landslides are prevalent,regular,and expensive hazards in the Karakoram Highway(KKH)region.The KKH connects Pakistan with China in the present China-Pakistan Economic Corridor(CPEC)context.This region has not only immense economic importance but also ecological significance.The purpose of the study was to map the landslide-prone areas along KKH using two different techniquesAnalytical Hierarchy Process(AHP)and Scoops 3 D model.The causative parameters for running AHP include the lithology,presence of thrust,land use land cover,precipitation,and Digital Elevation Model(DEM)derived variables(slope,curvature,aspect,and elevation).The AHP derived final landslide susceptibility map was classified into four zones,i.e.,low,moderate,high,and extremely high.Over 80%of the study area falls under the moderate(43%)and high(40%)landslide susceptible zones.To assess the slope stability of the study area,the Scoops 3 D model was used by integrating with the earthquake loading data.The results of the limit equilibrium analysis categorized the area into four groups(low,moderate,high,and extremely high mass)of slope failure.The areas around Main Mantle Thrust(MMT)including Dubair,Jijal,and Kohistan regions,had high volumes of potential slope failures.The results from AHP and Scoops 3 D techniques were validated with the landslides inventory record of the Geological Survey of Pakistan and Google Earth.The results from both the techniques showed similar output that coincides with the known landslides areas.However,Scoops 3 D provides not only susceptible zones but also the range of volume of the potential slope failures.Further,these techniques could be used in other mountainous areas,which could help in the landslide mitigation measures.
基金State Grid Corporation Science and Technology Project(520605190010).
文摘Owing to the rapid development of microgrids(MGs)and growing applications of renewable energy resources,multiobjective optimal dispatch of MGs need to be studied in detail.In this study,a multiobjective optimal dispatch model is developed for a standalone MG composed of wind turbines,photovoltaics,diesel engine unit,load,and battery energy storage system.The economic cost,environmental concerns,and power supply consistency are expressed via subobjectives with varying priorities.Then,the analytic hierarchy process algorithm is employed to reasonably specify the weight coefficients of the subobjectives.The quantum particle swarm optimization algorithm is thereafter employed as a solution to achieve optimal dispatch of the MG.Finally,the validity of the proposed model and solution methodology are con firmed by case studies.This study provides refere nee for mathematical model of multiojective optimizati on of MG and can be widely used in current research field.
文摘Value analysis of grain production influencing factors is a complex decision problem. This paper introduced a modified Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) accumulation factor, namely Solving Weight by AHP's Accumulation Factor Sequence Evaluating Data. We used the arithmetical average to replace the expert marking, so that the possible decision mistakes by the subjective judgments could be avoided. We computed the case with this method, which obtained attribute value of 17 influencing factors of the potential food production in Heilongjiang Province, and the result of which was reasonable
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(61601501 61502521)
文摘Test of consistency is critical for the analytic hierarchy process(AHP) methodology. When a pairwise comparison matrix(PCM) fails the consistency test, the decision maker(DM) needs to make revisions. The state of the art focuses on changing a single entry or creating a new matrix based on the original inconsistent matrix so that the modified matrix can satisfy the consistency requirement. However, we have noticed that the reason that causes inconsistency is not only numerical inconsistency, but also logical inconsistency, which may play a more important role in the whole inconsistency. Therefore, to realize satisfactory consistency, first of all, we should change some entries that form a directed circuit to make the matrix logically consistent, and then adjust other entries within acceptable deviations to make the matrix numerically consistent while preserving most of the original comparison information. In this paper, we firstly present some definitions and theories, based on which two effective methods are provided to identify directed circuits. Four optimization models are proposed to adjust the original inconsistent matrix. Finally, illustrative examples and comparison studies show the effectiveness and feasibility of our method.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 41372301)the National Science and Technology Support Program (Grant No. 2012BAC06B02)
文摘Many debris flows have occurred in the areas surrounding the epicenter of the Wenchuan earthquake. Susceptibility assessment of debris flows in this area is especially important for disaster prevention and mitigation. This paper studies one of the worst hit areas, the Subao river valley, and the susceptibility assessment of debris flows is performed based on field surveys and remote sensing interpretation. By investigating the formation conditions of debris flows in the valley, the following assessment factors are selected: mixture density of landslides and rock avalanches, distance to the seismogenic fault, stratum lithology, ground roughness, and hillside angle. The weights of the assessment factors are determined by the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method. Each of the assessment factors is further divided into five grades. Then, the assessment model is built using the multifactor superposition method to assess the debris flow susceptibility. Based on the assessment results, the Subao river valley is divided into three areas: high susceptibility areas, medium susceptibility areas, and low susceptibility areas. The high susceptibility areas are concentrated in the middle of the valley, accounting for 17.6%of the valley area. The medium susceptibility areas are in the middle and lower reaches, most of which are located on both sides of the high susceptibility areas and account for 45.3% of the valley area. The remainders are clas-sified as low susceptibility areas. The results of the model are in accordance with the actual debris flow events that occurred after the earthquake in the valley, confirming that the proposed model is capable of assessing the debris flow susceptibility. The results can also provide guidance for reconstruction planning and debris flow prevention in the Subao river valley.
文摘Recently, plant construction throughout the world, including nuclear power plant construction, has grown significantly. The scale of Korea’s nuclear power plant construction in particular, has increased gradually since it won a contract for a nuclear power plant construction project in the United Arab Emirates in 2009. However, time and monetary resources have been lost in some nuclear power plant construction sites due to lack of risk management ability. The need to prevent losses at nuclear power plant construction sites has become more urgent because it demands professional skills and large-scale resources. Therefore, in this study, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) were applied in order to make comparisons between decision-making methods, to assess the potential risks at nuclear power plant construction sites. To suggest the appropriate choice between two decision-making methods, a survey was carried out. From the results, the importance and the priority of 24 risk factors, classified by process, cost, safety, and quality, were analyzed. The FAHP was identified as a suitable method for risk assessment of nuclear power plant construction, compared with risk assessment using the AHP. These risk factors will be able to serve as baseline data for risk management in nuclear power plant construction projects.
文摘Today's banking institutions spread their product and service line on a daily basis. This effort to increase competitiveness is also creating an overstocked supply for existing and new clients. Not every product is meant for every client and aggressive sales strategies tend to repel clients which can cause serious problems in long-term client-bank relations. This paper will analyze savings and investments products along with their adaptation and modulation regarding client needs. Accordingly, banks will be able to offer particular products to clients with specific needs and wishes. The analytic hierarchy process, or simply AHP method, represents a process which will be able to transform client's demands and affinities into a customized offer. It is an easy-to-implement method used in any step of the decision-making process; the process must have multiple alternatives and each of them carries specific characteristics. The decision maker ranks all the characteristics and simultaneously all the alternatives, according to his affinities forming a final decision. This paper will explain how banks will be able to adapt to client needs and wishes in the future using the AHP method.
基金Supported by Big Investigation Item,Ministry of Land and Resources,China(1212010734002,1212010634204)
文摘[ Objective] The research aimed to evaluate ecological vulnerability of the vegetation in the Subei Lake watershed based on analytic hierarchy process (AHP). [ Method] From actual situation of the vegetation ecology in the Subei Lake watershed, by the established evaluation index system of vegetation ecology, based on AHP, indicator weight at each layer was determined. Comprehensive index method was used to calculate ecological fragility degree of the vegetation in each evaluation unit to evaluate ecological vulnerability of the vegetation. [ Result] Ecological vulnera- bility of the vegetation was divided into four levels, such as extremely fragile, highly fragile, moderately fragile and lowly fragile in the Subei Lake watershed. The extremely fragile area, where buried depth of the groundwater level was generally less than 1.0 meter, distributed in beach zones near the Subei Lake, and its relationship between vegetation and groundwater was close. The lowly fragile areas scattered in the ridge zone around the Subei Lake watershed, where buried depth of the groundwater level was 10.0 -40.0 meters, and their relationship between vegetation growth and groundwater depth was not obvious. Buried depth of groundwater had the most sensitive influence on vegetation ecology, and it was the key factor between utilization of groundwater resources and eco-environment protection in the study area. E Conclusion] The researches provided scientific evidence for regional eco-environment protection, rational development and utilization of water resources, and coordinated development of economy and society.
文摘The solar bubble dryer (SBD) is a convenient and better option to traditional open sun drying commonly practiced by smallholder farmers in Ghana and other developing countries. However, to operate the SBD, one is faced with the challenge of frequent mixing of grains using a rake to enhance uniform drying and prevent over-heating of the top-layer exposed to the sun. Additionally, condensation in the SBD can compromise the quality of grains during drying under humid conditions. In the present study, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used to select an appropriate drying platform, tarpaulin, or elevated drying rack for maize drying in the SBD. Using the AHP, the elevated drying rack was chosen as a suitable platform for drying maize in the SBD. The SBD with the elevated drying racks was used to dry 270 kg of maize from a moisture content of 18.2% to 12.6% (w.w.b) within 6 hours compared to 11 hours for the same quantity of grains dried on the tarpaulin of the SBD to reach an MC of 12.5% (w.w.b). An average drying rate and moisture extraction rate of 0.93%/h and 2.88 kg/h were achieved with the elevated drying rack system compared to 0.52%/h and 1.60 kg/h when drying on the tarpaulin of the SBD. An average temperature of 44.6<span style="white-space:nowrap;">°</span>C recorded in the SBD was 9<span style="white-space:nowrap;">°</span>C more compared to the ambient temperature. The thermal efficiency of the SBD collector was determined as 36.2%. Drying grains with the elevated racks showed advantages of reduced drying time, improved airflow through the drying bed, and prevention of condensation, which occurs when drying on the tarpaulin of the SBD.
文摘Recent research carried out in the public sector shows that outsourcing can indisputably bring many benefits to the organizations which master the art of devising, deploying and maintaining outsourcing relationships. However, for many organizations, these benefits remain elusive, while outsourcing projects are usually accompanied by unexpected and often negative effects. The paper focuses on in-depth analysis of the current situation concerning outsourcing of information technology projects (IT-projects) in Slovenian public sector. Presented research initially analyses substantive, procedural and other relevant aspects of outsourcing and provides a set of applicable decision making criteria. Stemming from the analysis results, this paper eventually presents the development of a multi criteria decision-support model based on Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) which could facilitate enhanced evaluation, selection and implementation of IT outsourcing projects in the public sector.