A Study of Alternative Wall Making Materials Selection Using Ahp Method
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Date
2022-06-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Material selection is a complex and delicate task determined by the vast number of building 
material options. Likewise, multiple factors are often considered by the architect or building 
designer when evaluating the various categories of building materials. As a result, these sets of 
factors or variables often present tradeoffs that further complicate the decision-making process. 
To ease the material-selection process, this study examines the relevant factors or variables 
needed to develop a systematic and efficient material-selection system. Through the analysis of 
frequency data and results of the study, it has identified the potential factors that will impact 
designers’ decisions in their choice of wall making alternative building materials, during the 
design-decision making process. The application of the criteria for the quantitative evaluation and 
selection of the best alternative building material, using the analytic hierarchy process model, are 
discussed. The developed decision support system assist designers to assess their consequences in 
terms of whether or not a material option is likely to be best chosen over the existing conditions. 
The study also investigates the existing situations in the application of alternative wall making 
building materials. It assesses the current materials which are being used as a wall making 
alternative building materials, the extent of usage and barriers to use these materials.   
Keywords: decision making process; factors or variables; selection criteria; alternative 
building materials; selection framework; analytical hierarchy process (AHP)