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A multicriteria model for selecting renewable energy systems in a distributed generation context

One of the challenging tasks that Smart Grids deal with is how to integrate distributed generation (DG) and renewable energy systems (RES). An important aspect in Smart Grids is that both demand and distributed generation (DG) are directly connected to the distribution network. The greater the numbers of DGs in a distribution network are, the more complicated it is to decide what the optimal DG outputs are, especially as two problems to do with voltage regulation and reverse power flow frequently arise. Multicriteria decision making models can be useful to support distribution operators to overcome their problems. A numerical application illustrates the use of a multicriteria decision making model for selecting what RES should be switched off in case of overgeneration. Keywords— multicriteria decision making; renewable energy systems; distributed generation; SMARTER.

Group Decision Approach to Adopt Green IT Practices Based on S.W.O.T Analysis

Green Information Technology - IT - refers to IT practices and products that seek to prevent pollution and sustain development. By implementing Green IT practices, organizations can reduce the amount of energy spent and develop efficient technology products. However, the decision by an organization to adopt green IT is based on several considerations. Thus, this article puts forward an approach to support the decision process of adopting Green IT practices by group decision. Given this objective, SWOT analysis is an essential tool for strategic decision-making. It also combines the use of a multicriteria method with integer programming to support this process. Finally, a hypothetical case is presented in order to illustrate the applicability of the model.

Minimizing the Compensatory Effect of MCDM Group Decision Additive Aggregation Using the Veto Concept

This paper introduces the concept of a ranking veto based on two new data provided by decision makers (DMs) in an additive model approach: the veto threshold and a value reduction factor (VRF). The use of additive models for aggregating group preferences over available alternatives implies the existence of compensatory effects in the process. In traditional approaches, the final result may assign undesirable or unacceptable alternatives to higher positions in the ranking, thus causing conflicts among DMs. The model proposed softens the compensatory effects on additive models. By way of illustration, a base station allocation problem for a Telecommunication Company is presented as a numerical application. In addition to the model proposed being simple to use, it enables a group to form a collective and/or consensual view on a decision problem.

Group Preference Aggregation Based on ELECTRE Methods for ERP System Selection

The ability of enterprise information systems, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP), manufacturing executive systems (MES) and customer relation management (CRM), to improve production and business performance are demanding more attention from enterprises, since increase in competitive advantages is a goal to be reached. Integration of all the information flowing through a company is a key characteristic of ERP systems. Enterprise systems are not developed in-house and so, in order to implement an ERP project successfully, organizations must purchase ERP systems which can be aligned with their needs. In a group decision context where all opinions and preferences must be taken into account, choosing the most suitable alternative may be a hard work. In this study, a group preference aggregation approach based on a combination of ELECTRE II and ELECTRE IV method is presented within the context of ERP project selection.

Using OWDg to Support a Multicriteria Group Decision in a Logistics Problem

In this paper, a model based on the Ordered Weighted Disagreement (OWDg) to aid workgroups to make decisions is presented. This model proposes a framework including some weight vectors and a measure to evaluate the compensatory effect among the opinions of decision makers. Therefore, it is possible to obtain more information about the decision process. Finally, a case study based on a logistics problem is used to illustrate the applicability of the model.

Assessing value-based objectives for developing business-IT strategies

In order to ensure a competitive advantage for their organizations, the management of Information Systems (IS) and Information Technology (IT) has been requiring more attention from business and IT executives. The alignment between business and IS/IT is one of the most important issues that companies must address if they wish to identify and respond to the threats and opportunities of the market in which they operate. Moreover, efficient management of and planning processes for IS/IT may support successful business strategies. However, successful IT alignment depends on identifying a rich and exhaustive set of objectives that truly represent the values of the executives of the organization. The non-establishment of these objectives may well be largely responsible for IT failing to contribute to business strategies. This paper uses the value-focused thinking approach to identify a set of means and fundamental objectives in a Brazilian enterprise that ought to be considered for developing an efficient business-IT planning. This study focuses on how the objectives found could support organizations to achieve their strategic goals.