The Combined Compromise Solution (CoCoSo) method, developed to address the limitations of traditional Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) techniques such as TOPSIS, VIKOR, and AHP, balances linear and multiplicative models by integrating the Weighted Product Model (WPM) and Simple Additive Weighting (SAW). This provides a flexible and balanced framework for decision-making. The methodology of CoCoSo consists of five main steps: (1) constructing and normalizing the decision matrix, (2) calculating additive and multiplicative performance scores, (3) applying three different aggregation strategies, and (4) generating a comprehensive ranking index.

This structure helps ensure robust and consistent results by reducing issues such as rank reversal and sensitivity to weight changes. CoCoSo performs particularly well in the social sciences, where difficult trade-offs—such as balancing efficiency and equity or short-term profits and long-term sustainability—often require weighing competing factors.

Due to its computational efficiency, adaptability to various contexts, and interoperability with other MCDM methods, CoCoSo is a versatile technique suitable for applications in public administration, social policy, urban planning, and healthcare evaluation.

However, it does have limitations, such as reliance on precise criterion weights and challenges in handling highly subjective or qualitative data. Its effectiveness can be further improved through future developments such as standardizing normalization techniques and integrating with fuzzy or intuitionistic fuzzy sets.

Ultimately, CoCoSo promotes evidence-based and participatory decision-making by addressing multidimensional decision-making challenges with methodological rigor and practical flexibility. Its capacity to handle uncertainty and a wide range of stakeholder perspectives makes it a valuable tool for tackling complex issues in the social sciences and a significant contribution to the MCDM literature and practice.