Sustainable Decision-Making in Higher Education: An AHP-NWA Framework for Evaluating Learning Management Systems

Ana Veljić (), Dejan Viduka, Luka Ilić, Darjan Karabasevic (), Aleksandar Šijan and Miloš Papić
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Ana Veljić: Faculty of Applied Management, Economics and Finance, University Business Academy in Novi Sad, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
Dejan Viduka: Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Sciences, University Alfa BK, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
Luka Ilić: Faculty of Applied Management, Economics and Finance, University Business Academy in Novi Sad, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
Darjan Karabasevic: Faculty of Applied Management, Economics and Finance, University Business Academy in Novi Sad, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
Aleksandar Šijan: Faculty of Applied Management, Economics and Finance, University Business Academy in Novi Sad, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
Miloš Papić: Faculty of Technical Sciences in Čačak, University of Kragujevac, 32000 Čačak, Serbia

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 22, 1-18

Abstract: This paper applies a hybrid multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model that integrates the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) for structured weighting of evaluation criteria with the Net Worth Analysis (NWA) method for value-based aggregation of scores. The proposed framework was employed to evaluate Learning Management Systems (LMS) in higher education, involving two independent expert panels representing management and IT perspectives. Results of the AHP analysis show that cost (28%), security (22%), and usability (17%) are the most influential criteria in the decision-making process, reflecting institutional priorities for financial efficiency, safety and ease of use. Based on the combined AHP-NWA model, Moodle 4.3 emerged as the most sustainable choice (0.586), followed by Atutor 2.2.1 (0.541) and Blackboard (SaaS edition) (0.490). The inclusion of sensitivity and scenario analyses confirmed the robustness of the model, demonstrating that the ranking of alternatives remains stable under variations in weighting factors and different strategic priorities. By framing LMS evaluation within the context of sustainable digital transformation, the study emphasizes how transparent and systematic decision-making supports long-term institutional resilience and aligns with the principles of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). In addition, the framework contributes to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), by guiding higher education institutions toward inclusive, resilient and cost-effective digital solutions.

Keywords: Learning Management Systems (LMS); AHP; NWA; higher education; sustainability in higher education; Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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