Modified Fuzzy Delphi Method to Select Decision Variables for Vertical Farming in Thailand

Abstract

     The purpose of this paper was to identify the decision variables involved in innovative construction and product development. Exploratory research investigated the opinions of 11 experts of 3 different paradigms and found that the vertical farming concept could be adopted innovatively and systematically by linking the variables and sub variables that were identified. This research also modified the Fuzzy Delphi Method to collect and find consensus among the 19 experts in 3 different but related paradigms, and to overcome the fuzziness inherent in the 15 key variables and 52 sub variables investigated. The evaluation and screening of variables revealed that the seven most important key variables were food quality, plant surviving factors, plant selection, planting method, cost/benefit, food accessibility, and energy and environment management. These significant factors were useful in decision making with regard to new product and construction development.