Determining settlement suitability by geographic information systems and analytical hierarchy process

Abstract

Multi criteria decision analysis (MCDA) covers both data and experience. It is very common to solve the problems with many parameters and uncertainties. Geographic information systems (GIS) supported solutions improve and speed up the decision process. Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) as a MCDA method is employed for solving the geotechnical problems. In this study, geotechnical parameters namely soil type, SPT (N) blow number, shear wave velocity (Vs) and depth of underground water level (DUWL) have been engaged in MCDA and GIS. In terms of geotechnical aspects, the settlement suitability of the municipal area was analyzed by the method. MCDA results were compatible with the geotechnical observations and experience. The method can be employed in geotechnical oriented microzoning studies if the criteria are well evaluated.