How does Point*Wizard work?
Point*Wizard applies our patented PAPRIKA (�Potentially All Pairwise RanKings of Alternatives�) method. PAPRIKA is based on the fundamental principle that any overall ranking of alternatives is uniquely determined by all pairwise rankings of the alternatives vis-�-vis each other (either strict preference or indifference).
First, specify your criteria
Point*Wizard begins by asking you to specify the criteria that are relevant to your decision - in plain English and in qualitative or quantitative terms.
In the hiring example represented on the right, for example, there are 5 criteria with 2, 3 or 4 categories each. (For an example involving ranking elective surgery patients click here.)
Instead of 'guessing' the relative importance of the criteria - their weights or scores - Point*Wizard lets you determine them in a systematic, transparent and repeatable way. Point*Wizard's simple user interface masks the sophistication of its algorithms.
Next, answer a series of simple questions
After you have specified your criteria, Point*Wizard asks you to choose between 2 individuals (or 'alternatives', in general), where each is described according to just 2 criteria at a time.
This simple question is repeated with different alternatives until enough
information about your preferences has been collected. In this example about 20
answers would be required (though you may supply more if you wish). 
Finally, use Point*Wizard to rank your alternatives
You may describe each alternative or individual that you are considering either before or after answering the questions. After you have answered them, Point*Wizard scores each alternative and ranks them automatically (see below). As well, a points system is produced that may be used for ranking many alternatives or individuals (e.g. 100s, 1000s or millions) that may not yet be known to you.
Accessories
Point*Wizard also includes a range of useful accessories:
- After decision-making you can test yourself (or your group) for the consistency of your decisions.
- You can test how your preferences compare with an existing points system.
- You can compare the rankings of alternatives or individuals produced by different points systems.
- You can let other users (in other locations) see the same dilemmas as you - so they can be involved in the decision-making too (via phone or email) or simply observe you.
