Development of RAMDOE: a new method for rapidly ranking alternatives with supplementary options and considering changes in criteria values

Abstract

This paper delves into the development and validation of the RAMDOE method, a pioneering approach in multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) that seamlessly integrates the root assessment method (RAM) and design of experiments (DOE) techniques, addressing the inflexibility of traditional MCDM methods in accommodating adjustments in criteria ranges and the addition of new alternatives without necessitating a complete overhaul of the decision framework. Through empirical analysis, the study demonstrates the RAMDOE method's remarkable efficacy in precisely ranking alternatives, as illustrated through a practical case study focused on the selection of a supplier from a pool of seven candidates. One of the most notable aspects of the RAMDOE method lies in its capacity to formulate a regression equation that accurately captures the intricate relationship between alternative scores and criteria values, enabling decision-makers to seamlessly integrate new alternatives into the decision-making process without the cumbersome task of recalibration, thereby distinguishing it from conventional MCDM techniques such as TOPSIS (technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution), COPRAS (complex proportional assessment), MOORA (multiobjective optimization on the basis of ratio analysis), EDAS (evaluation based on distance from average solution) and CODAS (combinative distance-based assessment). The practical implications of these findings are profound, offering decision-makers across various domains a more efficient and adaptable framework to navigate complex decision scenarios. Particularly in contexts like supplier selection, where criteria ranges may vary significantly, the RAMDOE method provides decision-makers with a robust toolset to make informed decisions, presenting a promising avenue for addressing the dynamic nature of decision-making environments and enhancing the overall robustness and flexibility of MCDM processes in real-world applications