MULTIFACTOR ANALYSIS FOR SELECTING ALTERNATIVES IN THE PREPRESS PROCESSING OF NEWSPAPER PUBLICATIONS

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive multifactor approach to selecting the optimal alternative for newspaper prepress processing. It systematically considers a wide array of factors that significantly influence the quality of the final printed product. The analysis focuses on key components such as dimensional parameters, typographic design, compositional and graphical layout, typesetting methods, and page layout structure. These criteria are crucial in achieving high-quality print results and ensuring the aesthetic and functional appeal of the publication.

Three alternative prepress solutions were proposed and evaluated. To assess their effectiveness, a factor analysis was conducted wherein the relative importance of each factor was established through expert evaluation. A pairwise comparison matrix was constructed to rank the significance of the considered factors, enabling a structured and logical prioritization of their impact.

To process the comparative data, the specialized software "Simulation Modeling by the Binary Comparison Method" was applied. This tool facilitated the calculation of normalized values of the principal eigenvector of the comparison matrix, which is essential for accurately determining the weights of each factor. Subsequently, separate pairwise comparison matrices were created for the alternatives in relation to each factor, leading to the computation of utility values for every alternative.

A mathematical formula was then derived to integrate the weighted utility values into a final score for each alternative. The method ensured that the evaluation process accounted for both the relative importance of the factors and the performance of each alternative under these criteria. The alternative with the highest utility score was identified as the optimal choice, providing a rational and data-driven basis for decision-making in newspaper prepress planning.

This methodological approach demonstrates the practical benefits of combining expert judgment, mathematical modeling, and software tools in solving complex selection problems in publishing workflows.