Rural Telecommunications Infrastructure Selection Using the Analytic Network Process

The decisions involved in rural settings are of complex nature, with some aspects compounded by the presence of intangible criteria. Hence, a suitable approach is needed that can produce effective solutions. This paper describes the applicability of a multicriteria decision-making method, specifically the analytic network process (ANP), to model the selection of an appropriate telecommunications infrastructure technology, capable of deploying e-services in rural areas of developing countries. It aims to raise awareness among telecommunication planners about the availability of ANP, and to demonstrate its suitability to enhance the selection process. The proposed model is constructed based on concerned experts' views of relevant selection criteria and potential technology alternatives. Its network structure caters for all possible dependencies and interactions among criteria and alternatives.