FISEVAL-A novel project evaluation approach using fuzzy logic: The paradigm of the i-Treasures project

Efficient evaluation of a project is a vital factor for its successful realization during its life-time, as it can offer insight to the factors that could influence its quality. In this vein, a new approach in project evaluation, namely Fuzzy Inference System Evaluator (FISEVAL), is proposed here, which builds upon the fuzzy logic-based inference processes to provide tangible evaluation metrics at various levels of evaluation analysis. A generalized structure of the FISEVAL is proposed and the way it is adapted to the specific characteristics of a project is presented in details for the case of the European i-Treasures project. The latter is handled by a multi-partner consortium and it is realized via a series of technical modules that are used in (sub)use cases, which also involve the users’ interaction. The specific parts of the adapted FISEVAL, combine both technical assessment and users’ evaluation, for all levels of development are thoroughly presented and discussed. Experimental evaluation results from two developmental cycles of the i-Treasures project are presented, illustrating the efficiency of the FISEVAL approach to shed light upon micro, meso and macro factors that influence the successful realization of the project. The promising performance of the proposed FISEVAL approach, along with its adaptivity and user friendliness, act as a framework with transferability potential to variant project developmental settings.