ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores selected theoretical and conceptual aspects of spatial multicriteria decision making and analysis of significance to all application domains. It focuses on various forms of location decision and analysis problems. The book also explores the modalities, advantages, and limitations of the transfer of Geographic Information Systems-based multicriteria evaluation methodologies from the stand-alone or locally-network computers to the World Wide Web. It examines three computer-based multicriteria decision support systems on the basis of their suitability for use as proactive planning tools in group settings. The book describes a methodology for assessing the suitability of land for low income housing using existing secondary data sources and integrating the information in such a manner as to provide useful decision support to urban managers in the context of a public policy of social equity and justice.
