Analytical Planning: The Organization of Systems (International Series in Modern Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, Vol 7)

Analytical Planning: The Organization of Systems deals with systems and planning and suggests a methodological tool for integrating the two. This book presents the basic ideas behind complexity, systems, hierarchies, and prioritization and describes planning as a unique form of decision making with illustrations of some prominent philosophical and methodological approaches. It highlights some shortcomings of traditional approaches to planning and shows how these can be addressed by the systems approach. This monograph consists of seven chapters and opens with a discussion on the nature of complexity and describes an approach that facilitates the use of creativity and experience to structure complex problems. The next chapter explains the rationale for systems thinking and how reductionism works. The Analytic Hierarchy Process is then considered, along with its relationship to some of the properties of systems. The remaining chapters focus on ways of thinking about planning and philosophies of planning; strategic planning; and the applicability of the Analytic Hierarchy Process to benefit-cost analysis and resource allocation. This book is intended for managers, decision makers, and planners, as well as researchers and practitioners in applied mathematics and computer science. Content: International Series in MODERN APPLIED MATHEMATICS AND COMPUTER SCIENCE, Page ii Front Matter, Page iii Copyright, Page iv Preface, Pages v-vi Introduction to Systems and Complexity, Page 1 CHAPTER 1 - Complexity, Pages 3-11 CHAPTER 2 - Systems, Pages 12-18 CHAPTER 3 - The Analytic Hierarchy Process, Pages 19-62 CHAPTER 4 - Systems Characteristics and The Analytic Hierarchy Process, Pages 63-86 Introduction to Strategic Planning, Page 87 CHAPTER 5 - Current Theories of Planning, Pages 89-132 CHAPTER 6 - Strategic Planning, Pages 133-177 CHAPTER 7 - Benefit-Cost Analysis and Resource Allocation, Pages 178-200 Author Index, Pages 201-203 Subject Index, Pages 205-208 By Thomas L. Saaty And Kevin P. Kearns. Includes Bibliographies And Indexes.