Author(s): Richa Babbar; Himanshu Joshi
Linked Author(s): Richa Babbar
Keywords: Stakeholders; Deliberative democracy; Contingent evaluation method; Multi attributeutility theory; Focus group discussions; Multi-criteria analysis
Abstract: The wide applicability of Decision Support Systems (DSS) as a technology to assist in the decision process exists in multi sectoral fields. However several factors such as adaptability, flexibility, acceptability, accuracy and uncertainty for socioeconomical sustainability of natural resources have resulted in paradigm switch from explorative DSS to explanative, participatory DSS. A social shaping of technology requires a participatory model that can be synthesized with other process models for decision support. In the continuum of development, the principles and theories of involving stakeholders may have to be understood before decision support system can be validated on a local perspective. Two such theories: Neoclassical Environmental Valuation and Deliberative Democracy theory from the science of economics has been analyzed in this paper, describing the social context and various forms and techniques of participation that can shape participatory DSS development and its outcome. Finally, the paper concludes with an example application of a framework build on equity and consensual forms of participation for a watershed in a rural context.
Year: 2009