Exploring the Potential and Benefits of AHP and GIS Integration for Informed Decision-Making: A Literature Review

• Published in: Ingénierie des systèmes d'Information 2023-12, Vol.28 (6), p.1701-1708
• Main Authors: Makkulawu, Andi Ridwan, Soemarno, Santoso, Imam, Mustaniroh, Siti Asmaul
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Agricultural production; Analytic hierarchy process; Complexity; Constraint modelling; Cost analysis; Criteria; Data analysis; Data management; Decision making; Geographic information systems; Groundwater; Hierarchies; Integrated approach; Literature reviews; Natural resources; Research methodology; Resource management; Site selection; Spatial data; Visualization; Writing
• ISSN: 1633-1311; 2116-7125
• DOI: 10.18280/isi.280629

In the realm of informed decision-making, especially where spatial dynamics are pivotal, the integration of Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) has been increasingly recognized as a potent tool. This comprehensive review critically examines the interplay between AHP and GIS in augmenting decision-making efficacy. Initially, the review delineates the contributions of AHP in managing criteria and sub-criteria, highlighting its structured methodology for assigning weights to decision-making factors. Subsequently, the focus shifts to GIS's role in the assimilation of spatial and non-spatial data, pivotal in geographical decision contexts. The synergy between AHP and GIS is elucidated through its capabilities in data management, visualization, and analysis, culminating in enhanced decision-making quality. Methodological scrutiny of diverse scholarly works, encompassing site selection, natural resource management, and infrastructure development, forms the backbone of this analysis. The strengths of AHP-GIS integration, such as superior data organization, integration of expert insights, time and cost efficiency in surveys, identification of critical decision-influencing factors, and advanced visualization leading to robust decision support, are comprehensively discussed. However, the review does not shy away from addressing challenges, including analytical complexity, stringent data quality demands, intricacies in modeling complex scenarios, and constraints in criteria definition. The fusion of AHP and GIS is underscored as a significant leap forward in geographical decision-making. It empowers decision-makers to evaluate and prioritize multifaceted options effectively, thereby fostering well-grounded choices across various contexts. The practicality and potential of this integration are demonstrated through cases such as land suitability analysis and natural resource management, underscoring its versatility and applicability in diverse decision-making scenarios.