MCDMDecision-makingDistanceMath steps
Minkowski Distance — generalised Lp norm (p ≥ 1)
DIST-MINKOWSKI (Minkowski Distance — generalised Lp norm (p ≥ 1)) is a distance multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method introduced by Minkowski, H. in 1910. It turns a decision matrix of alternatives scored on multiple criteria into a structured, reproducible result.
Key highlights
- Follows a transparent, reproducible computational procedure that can be audited step by step.
- Handles multiple criteria of differing scales and units within a single decision matrix.
Intuition
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How it works
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When to use it
d_p ≥ 0. Monotone in p: d_1 ≥ d_2 ≥ … ≥ d_∞ for the same pair. p controls the sensitivity to large differences.
Strengths & limitations
Strengths
- Follows a transparent, reproducible computational procedure that can be audited step by step.
- Handles multiple criteria of differing scales and units within a single decision matrix.
Limitations
- Results depend on the chosen normalisation, weights, and parameter settings.
Common pitfalls
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Sources
- 1.Minkowski, H. (1910). Geometrie der Zahlen. Teubner, Leipzig
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Cite this page
ScholarGate. (2026, June 2). DIST-MINKOWSKI. ScholarGate. https://scholargate.app/decision-making/dist-minkowski