A methodological framework based on a DANP model for evaluating the software quality in terms of usability: a preliminary investigation on mobile operating systems

Evaluation of the software usability as concerns software alternatives represents a typical Multi- Criteria Decision-Analysis (MCDA) problem. Such a kind of problem can be successfully faced via structured models and approaches which validity have been widely shown in literature. In this work, a methodological framework based on a MCDA model integrating the DEMATEL method along with the ANP technique is proposed and explained with more detail to address the relevant issue of the software usability evaluation. The applicability of the considered DEMATEL-ANP (DANP) based model in the under analysis contest is demonstrated via a preliminary investigation, where the usability of the two major Mobile Operating Systems (MOSs) is compared and quantitatively prioritized. Results of both performed comparison method and sensitivity analysis confirm the validity of the proposed MCDA model as well robustness of its outcomes. Moreover, results obtained point out about the influenced, independent and core factors for the MOSs usability, as well as strengths, weaknesses and discrepancies in the usability as concerns the two investigated alternatives. Representing these outcomes crucial aspects for driving focused MOSs usability improvement processes and strategies, they give also evidence of the effectiveness of the proposed methodological framework

An Integrated MCDM Approach to Train Derailment Risk Response Strategy Selection

Train derailment can mainly cause not only economic losses in the shape of mangled rolling stock or infrastructure, but also more severely in causalities and disruptions of operations, yielding great impact on the sustainable development of railway industry. Considering various complex and symmetrical operational environments, as well as the characteristics of low frequency and high consequences of derailment accidents, risk response is undoubtedly underlined as one of the most critical components of risk management process. However, in practice, risk response does not receive enough attention in comparison with risk assessment that it lacks mature models and tools for selecting optimal strategy. This study constructs an integrated Multi Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model for the selection of optimum train derailment risk response strategy for the first time. In the model, decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) technology is connected with analytical network process (ANP) to obtain evaluation criteria and their relative weights, and both of the two methods can deal with the complex coupling relationship between the indicators in the system. Then, technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) is proposed to screen the optimum plan in the proposed model. Further, the Delphi method is used through the whole process to acquire expert advice. In the end, this model is used to select shunting derailment risk response strategies in Huangyangcheng station, and the final results demonstrate that this technology is simple and practical, and can provide a credible and practical tool for railway safety managers and engineers to choose the best risk response strategy

Relationship Between Multiple Train Derailment Causal Factors and the Occurrence of Train Derailment

Train derailments can result in loss of life, interruption of services, and destruction of the environment. Understanding the correlates of train derailments can help railway managers and safety managers reduce the occurrences of train derailments. Grounded in the Swiss cheese model, the purpose of this quantitative correlational study was to examine the relationship between train derailment causal factors, visibility, weather, number of crew members, crew members’ length of time on duty, and the occurrence of a train derailment. Data were collected from secondary data on 1,396 Class I and Class II railroad accidents during the 2019 calendar year. The results of the binomial logistic regression were statistically significant, X2(12, N = 1396) = 114.265, p \u3c .001. Nonoperator causal factors and the number of crew members on duty were statistically significant predictors of the occurrence of a train derailment. A key recommendation for railway managers is to adjust preventative maintenance measures and increase the number of crew members on duty. The implications for positive social change include potentially reducing the frequency of train derailments and saving lives

Symmetric and Asymmetric Data in Solution Models

This book is a Printed Edition of the Special Issue that covers research on symmetric and asymmetric data that occur in real-life problems. We invited authors to submit their theoretical or experimental research to present engineering and economic problem solution models that deal with symmetry or asymmetry of different data types. The Special Issue gained interest in the research community and received many submissions. After rigorous scientific evaluation by editors and reviewers, seventeen papers were accepted and published. The authors proposed different solution models, mainly covering uncertain data in multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) problems as complex tools to balance the symmetry between goals, risks, and constraints to cope with the complicated problems in engineering or management. Therefore, we invite researchers interested in the topics to read the papers provided in the book