Decision making using the analytic hierarchy process in mining engineering

Experience and intuition have traditionally been central to decision-making in mining because of the frequent lack of quantitative data. Qualitative analysis is based primarily on the judgement, knowledge and experience of one or more experts. In cases where limited information is available, then subjective probabilities, based on general professional experience, knowledge, and opinion of experts, can be the basis for analysis. A methodology for qualitative decision-making using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) mathematics and sensitivity analyses is presented herein. This paper presents a series of case studies in different mining scenarios to demonstrate the application of AHP These relate to: investment analysis of new technology; ground support design; tunnelling systems' design; shaft location selection; and mine-planning risk assessment. A review is given of the AHP methodology for qualitative decision making based on field applications. (C) 2003 IoM Communications Ltd. Published by Maney for the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining in association with AusIMM. Manuscript received 27 February 2003; accepted in final form 27 August 2003.