Core: A decision support system for regional competitiveness analysis based on multi-criteria sorting

If regional competitiveness is equated to the capacity to attract and preserve investments, then the perception investors have of the region's characteristic is fundamental. This perception is a result of a complex integration of multiple criteria. This paper approaches the analysis of regional competitiveness by techniques of multi-criteria sorting. An ELECTRE-based preference model is used in the framework of the new THESEUS multi-criteria evaluation method for making competitiveness assignments. The model's parameters are inferred from a set of assignment examples. This model is implemented in the CORE decision support system, which satisfies a requirement of Sinaloa State Government in Mexico. CORE performs very well analyzing the competitiveness of Mexican regional entities. This will allow governments to better define their policies by placing financial resources more efficiently. The model and the system are conceived to easily emigrate towards other regional contexts.

► Regional competitiveness is analyzed by techniques of multi-criteria sorting. ► An outranking-based sorting method is used for competitiveness assignments. ► The model's parameters are inferred from a set of assignment examples. ► The model is implemented in the CORE decision support system. ► CORE is a “what if” analyzer of competitiveness.