An evaluative tool for solid waste management

Computer-assisted decision making in the public policy arena has become mor e prevalent in recent years as policymakers have faced increasing demands f or accountability. Numerous support tools have been presented in the litera ture and applied in practice. This paper presents a new computerized decisi on support tool customized for a particular public policy issue-solid waste management. The model, Multiple Attribute Decision System, differs from mo dels previously presented in the decision support and solid waste modeling literature by its comprehensive, systems approach. Solid waste systems are shown to be large, complex, multidimensional, squishy systems. The comprehe nsive approach of the Multiple Attribute Decision System addresses these is sues by considering human factors as well its the mechanics of solid waste management, and economic and environmental impacts are assessed. This paper uses the solid waste example to highlight the importance of this study's a pproach for public policy problems.