A fuzzy set approach to data-set evaluation for decision support

The authors examine the use of a matrix structure for representing the elements within a database as ordinary subsets of records representing information for decisionmaking. The linkage between decision objectives and data elements used for decision support gives rise to a representation of records as fuzzy subsets of decision objectives. It is shown that the fuzzy representation can be used to compare alternative records (combinations of data elements), and provide insights to the value of these records for decisionmaking purposes. An example involving the evaluation of university professors is presented.