Multi-criteria DSS

The DSS is based on multi-criteria factors including local and specific social, economic, technical and environmental constraints. This system will be designed and implemented for each case study.

The decision rules for the setup the DSS tool will depend on quantitative data deriving from weighted GIS (Geographic Information System) layers and thematic maps will be created for each main criterion. At a later stage, sensitivity and suitability maps will be produced using a weighted overlay method in GIS based on the weighted thematic maps.

Finally, several ‘what-if’ scenarios will be developed and evaluated, considering a wide variety of water management issues, such as evaluation of satisfaction level, water pricing, water saving suggestions to users, propose of new infrastructure and its impact. The ranking of these several alternatives in order of preference could also take place through the use of the DSS considering game theory principles in terms of a zero sum game. It is worth mentioning that the sensors that will be installed at the hotspots to continuously monitor in-stream and ground water quantity and quality using HRMA (allowing very tight measures over time) will be used primarily as real-time and early warning water quality systems in the DSS tool.