Multi-criteria Evaluation Revisited

Multi-criteria Evaluation (MCE) is increasingly being used in the assessment of natural resource management options which involve complex ecological, economic and social outcomes and interactions. This paper draws on the results of research experiences and reviews MCE applications to identify methodological issues with conducting MCE and future research possibilities. Some of the key issues that are covered include: the problems of choosing and defining the decision makers; interacting with groups of decision makers; MCE applications to different cultures; validation of results and sensitivity analysis and the need for consistency in the meaning of terms used in Multi-criteria approaches.