ABSTRACT
Structuring problems for multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) has attracted increasing attention over the past 20 years from both a conceptual and a practical perspective as a tool for aiding decision-making. This chapter describes a set of widely used formal problem structuring tools and how they can be applied to frame and analyze complex decision situations. It describes following methods: cognitive and causal maps, driving forces-pressure-state-impact-response (DPSIR) diagrams, scenario planning, stakeholder analysis and strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT). The chapter also describes how these methods can be combined with MCDA and discusses experiences and challenges related to their joint use. Stakeholder identification and analysis is highly relevant in MCDA because it explicitly recognizes multiple actors and their objectives. DPSIR has been increasingly used for environmental issues and research projects. SWOT can bring added value to stakeholder involvement, supporting the development of a common language and providing a simple method to improve communication and learning.
