MCDA Index of Suitability (MIST)

MIST is MS-Excel-based tool designed to assist in selecting the most suitable Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) method from a collection of 20 methods that are commonly used within the energy planning field. The tool identifies the appropriate method by calculating the Indices of Suitability (IS) for each approach, using 14 suitability variables related to the decision context and the MCDA method domain. To generate IS values, the user needs to select the expected characteristics of the proposed method for each variable. The results include the IS scores for each method, a chart to help visualise the priority of methods, and colour indicators that show the degree of appropriateness for a decision problem. Note that the user needs NO input data except for selecting the option that matches the expected properties of the method from a dropdown list.

MIST was developed as part of a PhD thesis on “Integrated sustainability and resilience decision support for energy transition in sub-Saharan Africa”, sponsored under This research was made possible by funding received from the Intra-Africa Mobility Scheme of the European Union in partnership with the African Union. This support falls under the Africa Sustainable Infrastructure Mobility (ASIM) scheme. It is part of the project deliverables – suitability framework for MCDA method selection in energy planning problems. In case of questions or feedback on MIST, please contact the authors through any of the contact details. Also, watch out for updates on the tools.

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MCDA Index of Suitability – MIST2025 Released data (11/08/2025)