Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis, or MCDA, is a valuable tool that we can apply to many complex decisions. It is most applicable to solving problems that are characterized as a choice among alternatives. It has all the characteristics of a useful decision support tool: It helps us focus on what is important, is logical and consistent, and is easy to use. At its core MCDA is useful for:
Dividing the decision into smaller, more understandable parts
Analyzing each part
Integrating the parts to produce a meaningful solution
When used for group decision making, MCDA helps groups talk about their decision opportunity (the problem to be solved) in a way that allows them to consider the values that each views as important. It also provides a unique ability for people to consider and talk about complex trade-offs among alternatives. In effect, It helps people think, re-think, query, adjust, decide, rethink some more, test, adjust, and finally decide.