Using FITradeoff Method for Supply Selection with Decomposition and Holistic Evaluations for Preference Modelling

Abstract

The FITradeoff method is a Flexible and Interactive method used to solve Multi-Criteria Decision Making/Aiding (MCDM/A) problems, with additive aggregation in the context of Multi-Attribute Value Theory. This study discusses the combination of two perspectives of preference modelling in the FITradeoff method for a supply selection decision problem. Five criteria are considered: Price, Product Quality, Delivery Time for supplying, Confidence of the Supplier and Service, associating to the classical objectives of manufacturing and operations strategies. The two perspectives are: the elicitation process by decomposition and the holistic evaluation. The combination of these two perspectives offers flexibility for the decision-maker during the FITradeoff decision process. The FITradeoff is implemented in a Decision Support System, in which the holistic evaluation is performed using graphical and tabular visualizations.