Adding value to bank branch performance evaluation using cognitive maps and MCDA: a case study Bank branch performance evaluation is a difficult endeavour. Some of the main reasons for this difficulty are the complexity inherent in the variety of aspects considered in the evaluation, and the multiple and conflicting interests of the different stakeholders involved. In this paper, we show how cognitive mapping and measuring attractiveness by a categoricalbased evaluation technique can be used to support the evaluation of bank branches through the development of multidimensional performance evaluation systems, and to deal explicitly with the tradeoffs between the different dimensions of performance and interests of different stakeholders. A case study is discussed where these techniques are used in a constructive way, making the learning activity easier and introducing transparency in the decisionmaking process. The strengths and weaknesses of the integrated use of these two operational research techniques in this context are also discussed.

Assessing Stakeholder Preferences in Urban Planning  A MultiAttribute Utility Approach In urban planning, decision makers often need to take a variety of aspects into account, including stakeholder attitudes. The purpose of this paper is to compare how decision makers and the public assess different criteria in an urban planning project. The study was carried out through interviews and a survey about an urban planning project. By compiling data using multiattribute utility theory, it was possible to reveal similarities and differences between the decision makers and the public. The findings reveal that the perceived value of the project differed greatly between these two perspectives: The publicu0027s opinion was closer to a status quo perspective, while the decision makers were more optimistic about the project. While some of the differences can partly be explained by uncertainty about the project and the criteria, the results reveal the importance of including the public in an early stage of these initiatives. Furthermore, the multiattribute utility approach is a useful tool for compiling assessments, but additional data is needed for gaining further understanding of stakeholder preferences. Therefore, a mixedmethods approach to collecting stakeholder preferences is suggested.