This work presents in detail a simplified method for the application of the analytic hierarchy method (AHP) that aims to calculate the priorities of each alternative against a set of criteria with only n-1 comparisons of n alternatives for each criterion (instead of (n²-n)/2 comparisons in the original method proposed by Saaty), followed by the application of a simple formula. This increases the attractiveness of the AHP method for business applications where decisionmakers are subject to a time constraint. •Simplified AHP method.•Reduced number of comparisons.•Saved time of highly qualified technical staff.

Recently, we developed a multimode multiproduct network optimization model, that is the network assignment method implemented in an interactive-graphic system for the strategic analysis and planning of national freight transportation systems, called STAN. For STAN, we developed a modeling framework of the rail freight transportation system, its components, operations and goals, that is adapted for both the strategic objectives of the planning system and the representation of the other transportation modes that compose a national multimode transportation system. The objective of this paper is to present and analyze the rail component of this strategic model of a national freight transportation system. We show how the rail model is integrated into STAN, as well as how this modeling framework may be used to represent a number of realistic scenarios.