Using an analytic network process model to incorporate qualitative factors into multi-criteria global modal choice decisions

This research develops and evaluates an Analytic Network Process (ANP) model to choose the correct mode of global transportation in the presence of complicating qualitative influences. The ANP model effectively combines important qualitative and quantitative factors into a global modal choice model. Although there is a great deal of research in the area of modal choice, the research often focuses singularly on cost or time factors. This research incorporates security, public opinion, and customer opinion into modal choice. One of the most difficult choices a transportation planner faces is deciding when qualitative factors outweigh the quantitative ones. A reliable tool to validate choice by including the important qualitative factors with the quantitative is quite valuable in military operations, humanitarian support, and disaster relief