Development of a new global quality index for evaluating baby diaper customer desirability: a useful tool for manufacturer

Abstract

A disposable diaper is a necessary product in the baby early life. Today, it is subjected to many developments to improve its performances. In this study, a new approach is proposed aiming to solve a multi-criterion phenomenon. A useful mathematical tool permitting the prediction of the customer’s satisfaction depending on their preferences is developed. The global quality index is determined through desirability functions. In this work, five brands of baby diapers are selected to be examined, manufactured by different international brands. The obtained results are converted to individual desirability indexes. Finally, geometric and arithmetic mean aggregation is used to determine the global quality index (GQI) by attributing relative weight to individual satisfaction degree. GQI of each selected baby diaper was determined. Obtained results permitted the identification of optimal products for manufacturers on an industrial scale when developing a new product to satisfy customer desirability. This article was addressed also to the consumer. GQI could help him to choose the best diaper for the baby's needs. Regarding this study, superlative baby diapers structure that would have the highest properties and would be ideal for consumers was simulated. HIGHLIGHTS A global quality index (GQI) can solve the baby diaper multi-criterion phenomenon, by using mathematical methodology through desirability functions. This can help hygienic product manufacturers to improve their products to predict costumers’ satisfaction depending on their preferences; Baby diaper key properties include liquid absorption, keeping the baby dry, thermal comfort, surface softness, and the structure of the diaper. All properties are converted to individual desirability indexes; Our research corroborates that the baby diaper global performance is related to each property. Attributing relative weight to each satisfaction degree by the customer’s affects the final GQI; GQI permit the identification of optimal product for the manufacturer on an industrial scale when developing a new product to satisfy the desirability of customers and improve child quality of life.