MCDMDecision-makingRankingMath steps
Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution
TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) is a ranking multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method introduced by Hwang, C. L., Yoon, K. in 1981. 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
This section is available to Pro members. Upgrade to Pro
How it works
This section is available to Pro members. Upgrade to Pro
When to use it
C* ∈ [0,1]. Higher C* means the alternative is closer (in weighted Euclidean distance) to the positive-ideal A⁺ and farther from the anti-ideal A⁻. Rank alternatives in descending C* order.
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
- May exhibit rank reversal when alternatives are added to or removed from the set.
- Assumes full compensation — a strong score on one criterion can offset a weak score on another.
Common pitfalls
This section is available to Pro members. Upgrade to Pro
Sources
- 1.Hwang, C. L., Yoon, K. (1981). Multiple Attribute Decision Making: Methods and Applications — A State-of-the-Art Survey. Lecture Notes in Economics and Mathematical Systems, Vol. 186, Springer-Verlag
You have read it. What now?
Cite this page
ScholarGate. (2026, June 2). TOPSIS. ScholarGate. https://scholargate.app/decision-making/topsis