The Tree Options dialog allows you to change settings associated with the decision tree. It can be accessed by clicking Decision Tree | Model | Settings.
Ignore conditioning events in an unknown state (default states will be used in calculations)
For models that have been created from Excel, the Influence Diagram will often have arcs from every export node to the import node (or nodes). However, you may have developed the Excel model such that if certain decision alternatives are selected then the spreadsheet ignores certain input variables. If you have done this in your Excel model, wish to build an asymmetric tree and do not want DPL to check for dependencies based on the influence diagram, then check this box. Note: it is important that the Excel spreadsheet is coded correctly because DPL sends values for nodes (for the Default state if the value is associated with an event) that are skipped in an asymmetric tree. This setting also applies to models linked to DPL programs.
Allow event already active and halt with penalty value (DPL Enterprise, DPL Portfolio)
For some problems, it may be necessary to have the same event more than once on a particular path in the decision tree. When this feature is turned on DPL will stop evaluating the tree if it encounters an event twice (i.e., halt), and will apply the specified penalty value (typically a large negative number) at that point. This feature is particularly useful for sequential drilling problems within the oil and gas industry where one is attempting to capture sequential learning and consequently find the optimal drilling order for several geologically dependant appraisal wells.
Default Alternative/Outcome Grouping
When you insert a Decision, Chance, or Strategy Node into the Decision Tree, DPL makes the node either symmetric or asymmetric; this setting determines which one it will be. (Note: After the node is inserted, its alternative/outcome grouping can be changed in the Tree Instance tab of the Node Definition dialog).
Advanced settings
Risk Tolerance and Utility Functions by Branch
By default, DPL allows you to assign a risk tolerance and utility function to the entire model. When this setting is enabled, DPL also allows you to assign a risk tolerance and a utility function to individual branches. See Risk Tolerance and Utility Functions.
Check the box at the bottom if you'd like to use the setting specified within the Layout Settings dialog for new models/programs.
Versions: DPL Professional, DPL Enterprise, DPL Portfolio
See Also