Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM)

Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) is an effective methodology for analyzing and processing complex system structures. It transforms system elements and their interrelationships into matrix form, enabling clear visualization of hierarchical structures and causal relationships.

In the ISM framework, the process begins with inputting an adjacency matrix that describes direct influence relationships between elements. The matrix dimensions correspond to the number of elements in the system. Through systematic matrix operations, the algorithm computes reachable sets, antecedent sets, and intersection sets for each element, thereby determining hierarchical relationships.

The reachable set represents all elements accessible from a given element; the antecedent set contains all elements that can reach the target element; while the intersection set is the common elements between reachable and antecedent sets. Analyzing these sets enables final element stratification, forming a clear hierarchical structure diagram.

Implementing ISM in MATLAB typically involves programming to process the adjacency matrix, perform matrix operations, and extract reachable/antecedent/intersection sets. Key implementation steps include: - Matrix power operations to determine reachability - Set intersection calculations using logical operations - Hierarchical partitioning algorithms for level determination This implementation not only facilitates system structure comprehension but also provides foundational support for decision-making processes.