Beslutsträdet

Beslutsträdet, or "decision tree" in English, is a graphical tool used for decision support. It visually represents a decision and its potential outcomes, including chance event, resource costs, and utility. The tree structure starts with a single, unique decision point, or root node, which signifies the problem to be solved. From this node, branches extend to represent possible decisions or outcomes.

Each node in the tree signifies either a decision point, where choices can be made, or a chance event, where uncertain outcomes are possible. Terminal nodes, or leaves, represent the final outcomes of a sequence of decisions and chance events. These outcomes are typically associated with a specific value or utility.

The construction of a beslutsträd involves identifying all relevant decisions, potential outcomes, and their associated probabilities and values. By traversing the tree from the root to the leaves, one can analyze different decision paths and their expected outcomes. This analysis helps in selecting the decision that maximizes expected utility or minimizes expected cost.

Beslutsträd are widely used in various fields, including business, medicine, and engineering, for their ability to clarify complex decision-making processes and facilitate informed choices. They are particularly useful when dealing with uncertainty and multiple interacting factors.