Abstract
This paper discusses a new method using “distance-adjusted covariates” in group decision making. We introduce a distance of opinions between two evaluators in the group, and define it by a distance between two vectors of covariates. The proposed method determines the scale of covariates (grade point) for each evaluator so that the distance of opinions will be adjusted which makes the influence on the group plan rather equal. Then the method introduces “VDI (Variety Dispersion Index)” that is an index for the equality degree on the influence for the group plan. If a VDI is small, it indicates that the influence on the group plan be equal. The simulation result shows that this method is also useful as a tool to analyze the group behavior by using grade points and VDI. The grade points and VDI can classify into four patterns groups, and show feature of each groups.
