[RHodgett]

Hello Everyone,
I am a postgraduate student at Newcastle University working on developing a decision-making aid for chemical professionals.
So far I have researched the typical methodologies used in operational research and other MCDA (Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis) literature.
I have come to a cross roads in my research and it is now time to ask potential users what they require from a Decision making aid.

I would VERY much appreciate it if you could spare 10minutes to complete the following questionnaire: http://www.hodgett.co.uk/research/

Also, I would like to open a discussion here to see what your views are on the following areas:

• Problem structuring – How do you make your decisions? Do you use any pen and paper based techniques or software?
• Types of decisions - Are your problems mainly quantitative (selecting operational values, flow rates..etc..) or quantitative (selecting personnel, machinery etc)?
• Shareholder Analysis –Do you have to consider other people’s views during Decision making?
• Time frame – How long would you spend on a typical Decision problem?

Many thanks, Richard

[gluedudeguru]

My invention or Product and developement come from two very important aspects.

First, I cruise the web and look for ideas that havent been done or have been done but could be applied to my industry.

Secondly, I wait for an epiphany, I wait for the light bulb to go on (usually late at night and my mind is wandering) and then I hunt that idea down if possible.

[eugenedakin]

Hello RHodgett,

Sorry, I tried to fill out your questionnaire and I didn't make it in time.

I have a few opinions (correct, incorrect, or otherwise  ) on your questions in your post:

1) Problem Structuring - Requires almost an even split between a) pen and paper, and b) software. The reason for the pen and paper is to determine what the 'actual' problem is. Too many times I have found out that the customer, boss (place anyone requiring your services here) does not know what they want. After spending some time with them, essentially this is an interview, then you are able to frame the problem(s), and determine a method to develop a solution. Once the interview process has been finalized, then some calculations are often required. This can be dealing with a) economics, b) mass balancing, c) research and development, d) and many other areas.

2) Type of decisions - this must absolutely be both. It is difficult to ask someone that does not have the skill set to perform a task that is beyond their interest or capability. The person(s) must be able to understand the 'big' picture and understand some of the intricate steps needed to achieve the goal - through the problem structuring in section 1).

3) Shareholder(s) - this is absolutely essential. All problems require time and money. The shareholders can be the business owners, customers, or other aspects (environmental, legal, etc.). All shareholders must be involved, and the economics must be considered.

4) Time frame - this depends - the time frame can be as quick as an hour or take as long as 10 years. The 10 year project has always been large, while the one-day project may be something as simple as optimization.

There is MUCH more that can be shared, and I believe that my post is getting too lengthy. Great questions!

Eugene