Validation of engineering design alternative selection methods

Abstract

The decision sciences have emerged over the past 300 years with contributions from many highly recognized individuals. Yet, by and large, these results have not been incorporated into engineering design decision methods, nor have these methods been validated. The result is that design decision methods commonly exhibit undesirable behaviors that are clearly evident when one knows what to look for. Indications of bad behavior are presented, and a framework for validation of engineering design alternative selection methods is suggested.