Designing a Multi-Methodology Framework for Operations Research using Social Network Analysis

Multi-methodology is a term used by Critical Operations Researchers for combining several OR methodologies in an intervention in different problematic situations. They believe that, even though OR methodologies are rooted in the different paradigms, they can be used as alternatives or complementary in a same intervention considering their weakness and advantages. In this paper, we have tried to improve the multi-methodology framework developed by other researchers using the Social Network Analysis approach, as well as the capabilities of the UCINET and NetDraw software packages. So, we have determined the complementary and alternative OR methodologies founded in the different paradigms and schools for the domestic dimensions of problematic situation in Iran. Calculation of concepts such as degree centrality, isolated points and etc. have shown the most powerful Operations Research methodologies and the gaps exist in OR methodologies, as well as the fields necessary to be improved. Application of the results will be useful for Operations Researchers.