Using SSM for structuring decision support in urban energy planning

Abstract

This paper describes the use of Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) as a tool for problem structuring, which is the first phase encompassed in a methodological approach currently under development to provide decision support based on Multi‐Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) in energy planning problems in an urban context. In order to apply the methodology to a real‐world problem, a medium sized Portuguese city has been chosen as the decision setting. SSM is used for characterizing as precisely as possible the decision problem context, identifying the main stakeholders and their relations, and discerning the relevant criteria at stake for each one. Future work directions based on this phase are also envisaged.

Santrauka

Straipsnyje aprašoma operacines sistemos metodologija (OSM), kuri bus taikoma kaip daugiakriterines analizes metodais pagrista sprendimu paramos sistema miesto energetikos planavimo problemoms spresti. Siekiant metodologija pritaikyti realiame gyvenime, eksperimentui buvo parinktas vidutinio dydžio Portugalijos miestas. Operacines sistemos metodologija taikyta kuo tiksliau nustatant pagrindines problemas, identifikuojant pagrindines suinteresuotas šalis ir ju santykius, nustatant vienas kitam itaka darančius rodiklius. Numatytos būsimos darbo kryptys.

Keywords:

• Soft Systems Methodology (SSM)
• Multi‐Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA)
• urban energy planning

Reikšminiai žodžiai:

• operacine sistemos metodologija
• daugiakriterine sprendimu analize
• miesto energetikos planavimas