Assessing Correlation Structures with Subjective Information-An Interactive Approach:

The generation of correlated random variates requires a positive definite correlation matrix. This paper presents an interactive approach to generating a positive definite correlation matrix from subjective information. The procedure, implemented in a FORTRAN routine, facilitates assessment of correlation structures determined from subjective considerations by providing feedback on the feasibility of assumed correlation structures. The routine was verified by applying it to a positive definite correlation matrix reported in the literature. An application of the routine to a nonpositive definite correlation matrix used in a capital investiment simulation for a new papermaking technology illustrates how the procedure may be used to assess possible correlation structures with subjective information.