An exact algorithm for the multicriteria ordered clustering problem

In the context of multicriteria decision aid, we address the problem of regrouping alternatives into completely ordered categories based on valued preference degrees. We assume that the number of groups is fixed a priori. This will be referred to as the multicriteria ordered clustering problem. The model is based on the definition of an inconsistency matrix and only uses the ordinal properties of the pairwise preference relations. An exact algorithm is proposed to find the ordered partition and is applied as illustration to the Human Development Index.

► We present a model that allows to define ordered clusters in a multicriteria context. ► The method only uses the ordinal properties of the preference matrix. ► An exact algorithm is provided. ► An illustrative example based on the HDI is presented.