The Analytical Hierarchy Process: An Optimal Methodology for Research in Entrepreneurship

Abstract

The paper proposes the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) as a mathematical tool for research into entrepreneurship through an example of its application, where the expected requirements of government policies to promote the creation of startups are identified. The study is structured on the AHP model in order to demonstrate quantitative and qualitative analytical foundations so as to determine alternatives that best fit the criteria to achieve multiple objectives. The results show the priority of government policies that best promote the creation of startups according to the directors of a set of Mexican University Business Incubators (UBIs). Research in entrepreneurship should be complemented with analytical tools that consider subjective judgments. The proposal of applying AHP models allows the obtaining refined assessments by selecting alternatives that meet the established criteria in order to reach an objective. This research provides evidence regarding the methodological advantage represented in the process of the hierarchy of alternatives based on mathematical analysis. The results of the applied scenarios exhibit AHP as a valuable resource in resolving problems that include relations between the qualitative and quantitative variables involved in the entrepreneurial framework.

Keywords

• ahp
• entrepreneurship
• government policies