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Evaluating the sustainable development of digital inclusive finance through fuzzy DEMATEL and VIKOR: A dual-perspective approach

Author

Listed:
  • Lien, Guan-Jie
  • Chung, Kuo Cheng
  • Guo, Hwang Tsuen

Abstract

Digital Inclusive Finance (DIF) leverages internet-based platforms to expand financial access for underserved populations, improving efficiency and reducing costs. The central challenge involves reconciling divergent managerial and user perspectives to foster sustainable Digital Inclusive Finance (DIF). Existing policies often overlook demand-side heterogeneity, failing to consider how variations in digital competence and trust impact user engagement. This study adopts a dual-perspective Multi-Attribute Decision-Making (MADM) framework, using Fuzzy DEMATEL to map institutional factor relationships, such as policy and technical readiness, and VIKOR to integrate user priorities. Empirical findings highlight trust and digital literacy as critical barriers to DIF adoption in Taiwan. The proposed Fuzzy DEMATEL–VIKOR framework reconciles institutional and user perspectives, providing a context-sensitive approach for policymakers to support equitable financial inclusion in digitally transitioning economies.

Suggested Citation

  • Lien, Guan-Jie & Chung, Kuo Cheng & Guo, Hwang Tsuen, 2026. "Evaluating the sustainable development of digital inclusive finance through fuzzy DEMATEL and VIKOR: A dual-perspective approach," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 114(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:epplan:v:114:y:2026:i:c:s0149718925001922
    DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2025.102725
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