Decision Analysis and Trade Studies Flashcards

A multi-attribute utility theory (MAUT) approach is most useful when:

Answer: Multiple conflicting criteria must be combined into a single utility value

MAUT is used when multiple conflicting criteria must be aggregated into a single utility score to compare alternatives systematically.

What is 'anchoring bias' in the context of engineering decision-making?

Answer: Over-relying on the first piece of information encountered when evaluating alternatives

Anchoring bias occurs when decision-makers over-rely on the first information they receive, skewing subsequent judgments and comparisons.

Which tool is used to visualize the hierarchy of objectives and sub-objectives in a trade study?

Answer: Objectives tree (value hierarchy)

An objectives tree (or value hierarchy) organizes decision objectives into a hierarchical structure to ensure all evaluation criteria are captured.

In a trade study, 'discriminating criteria' are those that:

Answer: Clearly differentiate the performance of the alternatives being compared

Discriminating criteria are those for which alternatives score differently, making them key drivers of the final decision.

What is the appropriate response when a trade study produces a tie between two alternatives?

Answer: Perform additional analysis, adjust criteria weights, or conduct further testing to break the tie

A tie indicates that more analysis is needed—engineers should refine criteria weights, gather additional data, or run tests to differentiate the alternatives.

Why should the team that will use a system's output be involved in defining trade study criteria?

Answer: To ensure the criteria reflect operational needs and effectiveness from a user perspective

Involving end users ensures that trade study criteria capture real operational needs, reducing the risk that the selected alternative fails in practice.