JECDM: A Java framework for Evolutionary Computation and Decision-Making

We present JECDM, a novel computational framework implemented in Java, designed to advance research in preference-based evolutionary multi-objective optimization. It comprises several core modules dedicated to visualization, decision support, evolutionary computation, and experimentation. They are designed to support various stages related to the implementation and employment of evolutionary multi-objective optimization methods steered by preferences, from algorithm prototyping to executing and analyzing complex experiments. Additionally, JECDM includes two auxiliary modules: one provides tutorials that guide users in utilizing the framework, and another contains source code from projects based on JECDM. The software features a versatile architecture with well-structured code adhering to object-oriented programming principles. It is engineered with computational and memory efficiency in mind while minimizing dependencies on external libraries — restricted to free and open-source resources. JECDM is freely available as an open-source tool, promoting accessibility and collaboration within the research community.