An integrated DEMATEL and Fuzzy ANP techniques for evaluation and selection of outsourcing provider for a telecommunication company

In recent years, strategy aspects related to core competency, risk analysis and organizational flexibility especially have been growing. This trend has led researchers and industries to become more interested in the multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) models for selecting outsourcing providers. The efficiency of decision-making mostly depends on the ability of decision-makers analyzing the complex cause and effect relationship between criteria and taking effective actions based on the analysis. Using an analytical method to select the most eligible outsourcing provider is significant for a company which desires to improve its competitiveness. In this study, a fuzzy integrated multi-criteria decision making method for evaluation and determination of an outsourcing provider for a telecommunication company is analyzed by using DEMATEL and Fuzzy ANP multi-criteria decision making techniques. First, DEMATEL method is used in order to put forward the interrelationship among the main criteria which are determined in the study for outsourcing selection process. Then, local weights of the sub-criteria and sub-subcriteria are calculated by Fuzzy ANP approach on the basis of cause-effect relationships that are exposed through DEMATEL method. The local weights are put into ANP supermatrix, and calculations are implemented to select out the most eligible outsourcing provider.     

Analytic network process for pattern classification problems using genetic algorithms

The analytic network process (ANP) is a useful technique for multi-attribute decision analysis (MCDA) that employs a network representation to describe interrelationships between diverse attributes. Owing to effectiveness of the ANP in allowing for complex interrelationships between attributes, this paper develops an ANP-based classifier for pattern classification problems with interdependence or independence among attributes. To deal with interdependence, this study employs genetic algorithms (GAs) to automatically determine elements in the supermatrix that are not easily user-specified, to find degrees of importance of respective attributes. Then, with the relative importance for each attribute in the limiting supermatrix, the current work determines the class label of a pattern by its synthetic evaluation. Experimental results obtained by the proposed ANP-based classifier are comparable to those obtained by other fuzzy or non-fuzzy classification methods.     

Soft computing based on interval valued fuzzy ANP-A novel methodology

Analytic Network Process (ANP) is the multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) tool which takes into account such a complex relationship among parameters. In this paper, we develop the interval-valued fuzzy ANP (IVF-ANP) to solve MCDM problems since it allows interdependent influences specified in the model and generalizes on the supermatrix approach. Furthermore, performance rating values as well as the weights of criteria are linguistics terms which can be expressed in IVF numbers (IVFN). Moreover, we present a novel methodology proposed for solving MCDM problems. In proposed methodology by applying IVF-ANP method determined weights of criteria. Then, we appraise the performance of alternatives against criteria via linguistic variables which are expressed as triangular interval-valued fuzzy numbers. Afterward, by utilizing IVF-weights which are obtained from IVF-ANP and applying IVF-TOPSIS and IVF-VIKOR methods achieve final rank for alternatives. Additionally, to demonstrate the procedural implementation of the proposed model and its effectiveness, we apply it on a case study regarding to assessment the performance of property responsibility insurance companies.     

Fuzzy decision maps: a generalization of the DEMATEL methods

The Decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method is used to build and analyze a structural model with causal relationships between different criteria. In this paper, it shows that DEMATEL is the specific case of fuzzy decision maps (FDM) when the threshold function is linear. Both FDM and DEMATEL have the same direct and indirect influence matrix. FDM incorporates the eigenvalue method, the fuzzy cognitive maps, and the weighting equation. In addition two numerical examples are illustrated to demonstrate the proposed results. On the basis of the mathematical proof and numerical results, we can conclude that FDM is a generalization of DEMATEL method.     

云模型与VIKOR集成的多属性群决策方法

针对以往定性概念量化过程中只考虑到模糊性这一不确定性因素的不足,采用云模型从模糊性和随机性两个方面实现语义评价变量的量化,并对专家组的语义评价信息进行集结。针对以往云差异性度量方法的不足,基于云模型构成的本质特点,从云滴分布的角度提出了云距离测度算法,进而提出了云相似度算法。考虑到决策指标间相互影响关系,将云模型与决策试验与实验评估法（Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory,DEMATEL）相结合,采用云DEMATEL法对专家主观评价给出的指标初始重要度进行修正,进而计算得到指标权重。采用云距离算法计算备选方案与正、负理想解间的距离,并最终由云VIKOR求得备选方案的妥协解。最后以实例验证了所提方法的可行性和有效性。     

Development of an interval type-2 fuzzy sets based hierarchical MADM model by combining DEMATEL and TOPSIS

In this study, a new interval type-2 fuzzy multiple-attribute decision making model is developed by integrating Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) and Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL). The proposed model utilizes hierarchical decomposition approach for reducing inherent complexity of the decision making problems. Additionally, interdependencies among problem attributes are taken into consideration by using interval type-2 fuzzy DEMATEL method. Finally, ranking orders of the alternatives are obtained by hierarchical interval type-2 fuzzy TOPSIS method. As there are several forms of interactions among criteria in real life settings, decision makers should be provided with the expert and intelligent systems which can overcome the preferential independence assumption. The proposed method is able to model causal dependencies by using interval type-2 trapezoidal fuzzy sets. The proposed method is implemented in a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT)-based strategy selection problem.     

Optimal location selection for an international distribution center by using a new hybrid method

The selection of a location for an international distribution center (IDC) is a most important decision for international logistics managers owing to the need to consider various criteria that involve a complex decision process in which multiple requirements and uncertain conditions have to be taken into consideration simultaneously. Moreover, the criteria often exist simultaneously as independent and dependent characteristics when the problems of location selection have become very complex. A new hybrid method combining the concepts of fuzzy DEMATEL and a new method of fuzzy multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) in a fuzzy environment is proposed to solve the problems of IDC location selection. In this paper, the fuzzy DEMATEL is proposed to arrange a suitable structure between criteria, and the analytic hierarchy/network process (AHP/ANP) is used to construct weights of all criteria. The linguistic terms characterized by triangular fuzzy numbers are used to denote the evaluation values of all alternatives versus various criteria. Finally, the aggregation fuzzy assessments of different alternatives are ranked to determine the best selection. Furthermore, this paper uses an empirical case for optimal location selection for an IDC in Pacific Asia to illustrate the proposed method, and the results show that the method is an effective means for tackling fuzzy MCDM problems.     

不确定语言信息下的大规模群体DEMATEL决策方法

针对现有不确定语言决策试验和评价实验(DEMATEL)方法大多仅适用于中小规模群体,且未考虑不确定语言变量采用非均匀标度的情况,探讨一种新的不确定语言信息下的大规模群体DEMATEL决策方法.首先,给出一种群体不确定语言DEMATEL矩阵的聚类方法,并对大规模群体DEMATEL意见进行合理分组;然后,定义三维不确定语言密度算子,并对大规模群体DEMATEL意见进行有效集结;最后,提出一种改进的基于不确定语言DEMATEL的指标权重确定方法,并在此基础上进行多属性决策.算例分析验证了所提方法的可行性与有效性,该方法采用非均匀标度来表征和呈现不确定语言变量,而且考虑了大规模群体决策的共识度,使得决策结果更为客观合理且更为可靠.     

Using BPNN and DEMATEL to modify importance–performance analysis model – A study of the computer industry

The importance–performance analysis (IPA) model has been widely used as the primary tool for customer satisfaction management. IPA is a 2-D matrix analysis based on the importance and performance of the organization from the customer perception of quality. The firm’s customer satisfaction management strategy is formulated according to the IPA analysis results. However, both conventional and modified IPA models have important hidden assumptions: (1) assumptions regarding the importance of quality characteristics and performance; (2) the assumption that performance and satisfaction have a linear relationship; (3) that quality characteristics are mutually independent variables, with no causal relationship. Under these assumptions, if the quality characteristics cannot meet the above-mentioned assumptions, the conventional and modified IPA models will not accurately analyze the importance and priority ranking for improvement, leading to wrongful decision making. This study puts forth a new decision making and analysis methodology that will, on one hand, exploit the back-propagation neural network (BPNN) to establish quality characteristics and the hidden important integral satisfaction assumptions. The decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) is used to calculate the causal relationship and extent of mutual influence among the qualities to adjust the importance of the quality characteristics and identify the core Order-Winners and Qualifiers problems. The proposed method modifies the quality importance and improves the IPA model ranking and also resolves difficult practical problems with fewer resources. This study illustrates using Taiwan industrial computer, working in conjunction with IPA models established with BPNN and DEMATEL to observe its application and effect.     

Choosing knowledge management strategies by using a combined ANP and DEMATEL approach

Numerous companies are expecting their knowledge management (KM) to be performed effectively in order to leverage and transform the knowledge into competitive advantages. However, here raises a critical issue of how companies can better evaluate and select a favorable KM strategy prior to a successful KM implementation. The KM strategy selection is a kind of multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem, which requires considering a large number of complex factors as multiple evaluation criteria. A robust MCDM method should consider the interactions among criteria. The analytic network process (ANP) is a relatively new MCDM method which can deal with all kinds of interactions systematically. Moreover, the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) not only can convert the relations between cause and effect of criteria into a visual structural model, but also can be used as a way to handle the inner dependences within a set of criteria. Hence, this paper proposes an effective solution based on a combined ANP and DEMATEL approach to help companies that need to evaluate and select KM strategies. Additionally, an empirical study is presented to illustrate the application of the proposed method.     

Combined MCDM techniques for exploring company value based on Modigliani–Miller theorem

This study combines decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL), analytical network process (ANP), and VIKOR to discuss the influence relationship between and relative weights of the major factors influencing company value – cash flow, weighted average cost of capital (WACC), and tax shield and their sub-factors based on the Modigliani–Miller (MM) theorem. The purpose of this study is to offer a reference to investors and regulatory units on how to choose the most valuable company as well as utilize a more accurate financial econometrics model to support their decisions. The factors and sub-factors are identified through the research model proposed by this study and the 3 factors of MM are then expanded into a seven-factor model. Among the seven factors, a study on company value shows that scale of debt is the most important criterion compared to all other criteria, followed by cost of debt, and earnings before interest and tax (EBIT). Moreover, empirical findings demonstrate that among the leading companies of Taiwan, Japan and Korea’s panel sector, the investment value of Samsung Electronics is significantly higher than LG, AU Optronics (AUO), Innolux, and Sharp. Research results further indicate that decomposing the MM model into a more precise financial econometrics model can help investors make better stock investment decisions.     

An integrated approach of AHP and DEMATEL methods in evaluating the criteria of auto spare parts industry

This study uses both analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) methods to evaluate the criteria in auto spare parts industry in Taiwan. Traditionally, AHP does not consider indirect effects for each criterion and assumes that criteria are independent without further addressing the interdependence between or among the criteria. Thus, the importance computed by AHP can be viewed as short-term improvement opportunity. On the contrary, DEMATEL method not only evaluates the importance of criteria but also depicts the causal relations of criteria. By observing the causal diagrams, the improvement based on cause-oriented criteria might improve the performance effectively and efficiently for the long-term perspective. As a result, the major advantage of integrating AHP and DEMATEL methods is that the decision maker can continuously improve suppliers’ performance from both short-term and long-term viewpoints.     

Evaluation and management of new service concepts: An ANP-based portfolio approach

One of the most crucial decisions in service development is concept selection. Nevertheless, little attention has been paid to evaluation of new service concepts (NSCs). This study proposes an analytic network process (ANP) approach to evaluation of NSCs. ANP is a multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) method that can accommodate interdependency among decision attributes. The proposed approach measures feasibility of NSCs in terms of strategy, technology, market, implementation, and operation. The derived feasibility values of NSC alternatives are then employed to construct the NSC portfolio matrix, together with customers’ preference. The NSC portfolio matrix is expected to aid decision making on concept selection and provide managerial implications for service development. A case of the mobile information and entertainment service is presented to illustrate the proposed approach.     

Analytic network process decision-making to assess slicing machine in terms of precision and control wafer quality

We discuss and develop a manufacturing quality yield model to forecast the 12 in silicon wafer slicing based on an analytic network process (ANP) framework. The ANP is a general theory of relative measurement used to derive composite-priority-ratio scales from individual-ratio scales that represent the relative influence of factors that interact with respect to the control criteria. Through its supermatrix, which is composed of matrices of column priorities, the ANP framework captures the outcome of dependence and feedback within and between clusters of factors. Additionally, the proposed algorithm can select the evaluation outcomes to identify the optimal machine of precision. Finally, results of the EWMA control chart and Process Capability Indices demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed ANP-based algorithm in effectively selecting the evaluation outcomes and in evaluating the precision of the optimal performing machines. We illustrate how the ANP model implemented for helping the engineer can find out the manufacturing process yield quickly and effectively.     

Evaluation criteria for blog design and analysis of causal relationships using factor analysis and DEMATEL

The purpose of this study is to find the key factors influencing blog design, and explore the causal relationships between the criteria for each factor. Since design is a multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem, this study adopts a model which is a hybrid of factor analysis and the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory method (DEMATEL). The DEMATEL method is used to simplify and visualize the interrelationships between criteria in making a decision. This study found five core factors that influence blog design: visual clarity, interface and usability, content and searchability, programming, and sociability. In addition, the key criteria for each factor were identified and the impact-relation maps obtained. The results of this study can provide useful guidance to blog designers for developing better blog platforms.     

Performance comparison based on customer relationship management using analytic network process

Customer relationship management (CRM) is a multi-perspective business paradigm which aims maximizing the benefits gained from relationships with customers. The aim of this paper is to compare the CRM performances of e-commerce firms using a multiple criteria decision making (MCDM) approach. Analytical network process (ANP) is a MCDM methodology which can take the inner and outer dependencies among multiple criteria into consideration. As there are dependencies among CRM performance evaluation criteria, ANP is used for comparing the CRM performances of the e-commerce firms under consideration. A sensitivity analysis also provided in order to monitor the robustness of the proposed ANP framework to changes in the weights of evaluation criteria. To the authors’ knowledge, this will be the first study which evaluates CRM performance using ANP.     

模糊WINGS视角下的ANP加权矩阵新构造方法

构造因素集加权矩阵是ANP系统未加权超矩阵到加权超矩阵转化的一个关键技术。然而从已有的三种构造方法看,两两比较法比较机理混乱,而等权矩阵假设构造法通常是无效的,并且基于DEMATEL（决策试行与评价实验室）的构造方法不仅存在忽视因素集自身强度的内在不足,而且也难以反映专家在对因素集之间影响关系判断时存在的“不精确性”。为克服上述缺陷,提出一种模糊WINGS（加权影响情景下的非线性测度体系）视角下的ANP因素集加权矩阵新构造方法。该方法一方面给出改进后的模糊DELPHI决策程序,充分考虑了专家判断过程中的“不精确性”。另一方面,系统提出模糊WINGS的方法思路,在系统因素集影响关系判别时充分考虑了因素集的自我影响强度,使因素集直接影响矩阵的构造更为合理。实例对比验证结果表明,该方法是科学合理的,有着较强的实践应用可操作性。     

Proposing a new integrated model based on sustainability balanced scorecard (SBSC) and MCDM approaches by using linguistic variables for the performance evaluation of oil producing companies

Using the balanced scorecard approach based on sustainable development parameters is a powerful and useful methodology to evaluate the sustainable performance of organization or company. In this paper, a new approach based on sustainability balanced scorecard (SBSC) and multi criteria decision making (MCDM) approaches is developed for evaluating the performance of oil producing companies in Iran. For reflecting the interdependent relationships among factors influencing the problem under consideration, analytical network process (ANP), a branch of the MCDM techniques, is employed. However, using the ANP method for calculating the preference ratings of alternatives is a time-consuming and bothersome process; therefore, COPRAS (COmplex PRoportional ASsessment) technique is adopted to prioritize the feasible alternatives in terms of linguistic variables. Based on this study, the results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model. The performance evaluation model proposed by using a combination of the MCDM methods and the SBSC approach helps authorities to make an attempt for achieving a competitive advantage.     

基于概率语言和改进TODIM的产品服务匹配方法

针对概率语言信息下产品服务模块双边匹配问题,考虑匹配主体间的相互作用与影响以及决策者的心理行为,提出一种基于BWM (best-worst method)、DEMATEL (decision making trial and evaluation laboratory)权重确定方法和改进TODIM的概率语言双边匹配方法.首先,通过BWM方法和概率语言DEMATEL方法确定各匹配模块综合权重;然后,通过TODIM方法计算产品服务模块的总体优势度,得到产品服务模块双边匹配满意度矩阵;接着,在此基础上,构建以产品和服务效用达到最大的多目标优化模型,利用线性加权法将其转化为单目标模型求解,进而得到最优匹配方案;最后,通过新能源汽车产品服务匹配的案例,验证所提出方法的有效性和可行性,为新能源汽车产品与服务融合发展提供新方向.     

基于非线性复杂系统观的直觉模糊变权多属性决策方法

为克服传统直觉模糊多属性决策方法所存在的采用固定不变的权重体系难以反映复杂系统因素之间蕴含的非线性联结机理、尚未考虑方案之间的内在关联性、对于决策主体风险偏好的异质性关注不足等缺陷,依据非线性复杂系统思维观,通过将属性因素变权、方案因素关联和决策主体风险态度合理引入三方面有机融合,提出一种直觉模糊变权多属性决策方法.该方法运用决策试行与评价实验室(DEMATEL)算法确定出不同方案情境下变化的属性权重,且通过综合集成集对势理论和风险态度系数构建出新的记分函数,并证明了其相关性质.最后,通过案例应用及对比分析验证了所提出方法的科学性和可行性.