Fuzzy Delphi Research Articles

Exploring Internet of Things adoption challenges in manufacturing firms: A Delphi Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process approach.

Innovation is key to gaining a sustainable edge in an increasingly competitive global manufacturing landscape. For Bangladesh's manufacturing sector to survive and thrive in today's cutthroat business environment, adopting transformative technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) is not a luxury but a necessity. This article tackles the formidable task of identifying and comprehensively evaluating the impediments to IoT adoption in the Bangladeshi manufacturing industry. We delve deeply into the complex terrain of IoT adoption challenges by synthesizing expert insights and a meticulously selected body of contemporary literature. We employ a robust methodology combining the Delphi method with the fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process to systematically analyze and prioritize these challenges. Using this methodology, we leveraged the combined expertise of domain specialists and subsequently employed fuzzy logic techniques to address the inherent ambiguities and uncertainties within the data. Our findings highlight this clear path. They reveal that among the myriad barriers, "Lack of top management commitment to implementing new technology" (B10), "High initial implementation investment costs" (B9), and "Risks associated with switching to a new business model" (B7) loom most extensive, demanding immediate attention. These insights are not confined to academia but serve as a pragmatic guide for industrial managers. Armed with the knowledge gleaned from this study, managers can craft tailored strategies, set well-informed priorities, and embark on a transformational journey toward harnessing the vast potential of IoT in the Bangladeshi industrial sector. This article provides a comprehensive understanding of IoT adoption challenges and industry leaders with the tools necessary to navigate these challenges effectively. This strategic navigation, in turn, contributes significantly to enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of Bangladeshi manufacturing in the IoT era.

Application of a hybrid fuzzy-based algorithm to investigate the environmental impact of sewer overflow

PurposeThis study underscores the critical importance of well-functioning sewer systems in achieving smart and sustainable urban drainage within cities. It specifically targets the pressing issue of sewer overflows (SO), widely recognized for their detrimental impact on the environment and public health. The primary purpose of this research is to bridge significant research gaps by investigating the root causes of SO incidents and comprehending their broader ecological consequences.Design/methodology/approachTo fill research gaps, the study introduces the Multi-Phase Causal Inference Fuzzy-Based Framework (MCIF). MCIF integrates the fuzzy Delphi technique, fuzzy DEMATEL method, fuzzy TOPSIS technique and expert interviews. Drawing on expertise from developed countries, MCIF systematically identifies and prioritizes SO causes, explores causal interrelationships, prioritizes environmental impacts and compiles mitigation strategies.FindingsThe study's findings are multifaceted and substantially contribute to addressing SO challenges. Utilizing the MCIF, the research effectively identifies and prioritizes causal factors behind SO incidents, highlighting their relative significance. Additionally, it unravels intricate causal relationships among key factors such as blockages, flow velocity, infiltration and inflow, under-designed pipe diameter and pipe deformation, holes or collapse, providing a profound insight into the intricate web of influences leading to SO.Originality/valueThis study introduces originality by presenting the innovative MCIF tailored for SO mitigation. The combination of fuzzy techniques, expert input and holistic analysis enriches the existing knowledge. These findings pave the way for informed decision-making and proactive measures to achieve sustainable urban drainage systems.

A Comprehensive Evaluation Model for Sustainable Supply Chain Capabilities in the Energy Sector

This study introduces a comprehensive model to evaluate multiple capabilities within the sustainable supply chain evaluation framework. The primary aim is to determine the significance of various capabilities in the context of sustainable supply chains. The research involved a sample of sixteen companies operating in Iran’s energy sector. The findings indicate that the majority of these companies are at level two in terms of capability. Therefore, it is recommended that these companies employ this model to assess their capability levels and identify any existing gaps. Methodologically, a checklist tool was used to refine the criteria using the fuzzy Delphi method. Subsequently, an appropriate model was chosen and developed by reviewing existing evaluation models. The criteria were compared and finalized using the Analytic Hierarchy Process. Finally, the criteria were further refined and validated through a fuzzy expert system, incorporating Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System and Fuzzy Inference System. The developed model was then simulated and validated using MATLAB Simulink software (R2017b).

Toward holistic neighbourhood sustainability assessment: integrating fuzzy Delphi method for sustainable indicator selection for Aizawl city

ABSTRACT Neighbourhood Sustainability Assessment (NSA) is vital in navigating the complex dynamics of social, environmental, and economic factors in localised settings, especially amidst the challenges of urbanisation, resource scarcity, and climate change. NSA tools have emerged as pivotal instruments in integrating sustainability into urban development, recognising neighbourhood as fundamental units for systemic sustainability approaches. However, existing NSA methodologies tend to favour environmental aspects, prompting a call for more balanced approaches encompassing social and economic dimensions. The study underscores the need for NSA tools to evolve towards context-sensitive methodologies for broader applicability across diverse urban landscapes. Through a literature review, the study highlights the importance of integrating community perspectives, sustainability indicators, and context-specific approaches in NSA, advocating for holistic strategies to drive sustainable urban development agendas. This study presents a methodological framework for selecting neighbourhood sustainability indicators in Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram which is located in N-E India, by incorporating community perspectives and expert judgments. The methodology involves several steps: review of existing NSA frameworks to select comprehensive indicators, perception and public participation surveys to identify local indicators, engagement of experts through the Fuzzy-Delphi Method, and application of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) for indicator prioritisation. Through these steps, 47 essential indicators were selected, covering social, economic, environmental and governance aspects. The study emphasises the importance of combining bottom-up community input with top-down-expert knowledge for comprehensive and reliable sustainability assessments. Challenges such as energy and water resource deficiencies are highlighted, underscoring the need for balanced approaches to neighbourhood sustainability planning.

Sustainable Supplier Selection Criteria for HVAC Manufacturing Firms: A Multi-Dimensional Perspective Using the Delphi–Fuzzy AHP Method

Sustainable Supplier Selection Criteria for HVAC Manufacturing Firms: A Multi-Dimensional Perspective Using the Delphi–Fuzzy AHP Method

Determining the New Norm Elements in Emergency Departments in Malaysia During a Pandemic: A Fuzzy Delphi Method.

Emergency departments (EDs) have had to cope with various pandemics, such as HIN1, Ebola and the currently ongoing COVID-19. This study aimed to determine the elements of the new norm that has introduced changes into healthcare systems, particularly EDs, during the COVID-19 pandemic and to obtain consensus from the experts, the Emergency physicians in EDs across Malaysia. No previous study has been conducted on this topic. This study used the fuzzy Delphi method (FDM) to acquire expert consensus. There were two phases in this study. The first involved extracting the elements to be assessed by the selected experts from a literature review. Three major domains were considered: infrastructure, governance and human resources. A total of 35 items were identified and divided into the three domains. In the second phase, the selected items were sent to a group of 15 ED physicians, who were asked to rate the items on a Likert-type scale. The data were then analysed using FDM. A total of 35 items were identified as possible new norms from a literature search for the three domains (governance, infrastructure and human resources). The first step of the FDM analysis showed that 9 out of the 35 items did not fulfil the initial requirement of the FDM, since the threshold value (d) must be lower than 0.2 (d </ 0.2). In meeting the second condition for the FDM, 25 out of the 35 items had an expert consensus of > 75%. Regarding the third requirement for FDM, only 1 out of the 35 items did not meet the criteria of an average fuzzy number (A value) of > 0.5. Finally, 25 items fulfilled all three requirements of FDM, so these were retained and the remaining 10 items were discarded. The FDM used in this study had identified 25 items achieved the required level of agreement by the chosen experts. The results of this study can be used to guide EDs in Malaysia to utilise the new norms items in mitigating major outbreak affecting the ED services.

The dharma of work: Cracking the code to social sustainability puzzle for the future of human resources

AbstractThe growing awareness of social sustainability and employee experiences has gained significant global organizational attention toward socially sustainable issues, mainly due to the sudden surge in resignations, strikes, elevated job stress, and depression in the Indian manufacturing sector. Despite organizational efforts to address these challenges, a notable gap persists in understanding the influence of socially sustainable strategies on employee well‐being and organizational sustainability. Hence, this research aims to fill that void by identifying and ranking strategies for achieving sustainable development from a holistic angle. The triangulation method is employed in this study as a validation strategy, reinforcing the credibility of the findings. This study utilizes a hybrid approach that integrates the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) and the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) to enhance accuracy and dependability in identifying and prioritizing critical social strategies. A literature review and FDM are used to create initial strategies, which are subsequently prioritized through the FAHP method to determine their relative significance. Eight strategies aligned with sustainable development goals are identified, with “improving employee well‐being” deemed most crucial, followed by “improving diversity, equity, and inclusion” and “equipping leaders with empathy.” The study illustrates how these social practices advance the development of sustainable business models by improving organizational culture, fostering future competencies, and promoting human‐centered leadership. This study offers managerial insights for managers striving to align organizational objectives with global sustainability aims. Organizations may leverage the identified factors for strategic planning to establish a resilient foundation capable of enduring the challenges of a dynamic market environment.

Developing a Micro-Credential Curriculum in IoT for Malaysian Community Colleges: Key Topics and Projects

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a crucial course in Information Technology programs, merging electronic circuit concepts with programming skills to create interconnected devices. This study aimed to design a Malaysian Community College micro-credential curriculum for IoT by identifying relevant theoretical and practical topics and mini-projects. A need for a micro-credential module with suitable instructional materials was identified, enabling learners to apply theoretical concepts through mini-projects. Using the Fuzzy Delphi (FD) method, data from 19 experts via semi-structured interviews were analyzed to design the Fuzzy Delphi instrument. This instrument was distributed to 30 industry experts and academic practitioners, who ranked the elements on a five-point Likert scale. Fuzzy evaluation to establish consensus for inclusion requires an average expert agreement of 75%, a d-construct threshold of 0.2, and an average fuzzy number of 0.5. Consensus was reached for six out of nine theoretical topics and nine out of 13 practical topics. “Fundamental concepts of IoT” was deemed the most critical theoretical topic with 97% consensus, while "basic connectivity of IoT hardware" was the top practical topic with 100% consensus. For mini-projects, experts accepted two out of nine theoretical topics and nine out of 13 hands-on topics. The top authentic projects were “Air Quality Monitoring” and “Smart Home Security”, with 83% and 80% consensus, respectively. This study lays the groundwork for developing learning outcomes and assessment strategies for a micro-credential course on IoT at Community Collegesto equip TVET students with industry-relevant competencies, thus making them more employable.

Heutagogy in Action: Empowering Mathematics Teachers Through Innovative Pedagogical Approaches

As a result, mathematics teachers are prompted to focus on the heutagogical approach. However, challenges arise, like inadequate training and support among mathematics teachers. Thus, this study concentrated on formulating a series of teaching activities aligned with the heutagogical approach, specifically tailored to assist mathematics teachers in enhancing their teaching methods. This study was conducted using the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) involving 15 experts with various fields of expertise such as mathematics education, educational technology, heutagogy, pedagogy and the curriculum as well as primary and secondary school mathematics teachers. The data was collected from October 2023 to November 2023 by using a questionnaire as the primary means of collecting data. Findings were analysed using triangular fuzzy number, threshold value, percentage for expert consensus and defuzzification process to determine the acceptance and ranking for each teaching activity. The results indicate that teachers assign projects that require students to explore real-world applications of mathematical concepts, were ranked first, followed by other activities, while teachers arrange virtual sessions with guest speakers from the mathematics field to provide insights to real-world applications were ranked last. In conclusion, this study offers valuable insights for mathematics teachers interested in enhancing student-centered learning within the framework of Education 4.0.

Critical barriers to adopt sustainable manufacturing practices in medium-sized ready-made garment manufacturing enterprises and their mitigation strategies

This study delves into the critical barriers hindering sustainable manufacturing practices in medium-sized ready-made garments manufacturing enterprises. Initially, barriers were identified through a literature review and expert opinions. Then, the fuzzy Delphi Method and expert consensus were used to prioritize the critical barriers. Finally, based on the insights from a focus group discussion and the supported literature, strategies to mitigate the identified critical barriers were formulated. In this study, the initial barriers identified encompassed various dimensions. The top three critical barriers were identified as higher prices of sustainable products, limited supplier commitment, and lack of access to information. Strategies to address these critical barriers include adopting collaborative business approaches, incorporating sustainability standards, investing in technology, implementing sustainable manufacturing techniques, and integrating green supply chain management practices. Overall, by focusing on these strategies, medium-sized garment manufacturing enterprises can enhance their sustainability efforts and gain economic, environmental, and social benefits.

Transforming Inclusive Digital Pedagogy in Malaysian Tertiary TVET: Adapting to a New Educational Landscape

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly sped up the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in education. The aim is to create a more inclusive and fair system, especially in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) for individuals with special needs. This approach focuses on personalized learning, high-quality information, and employer involvement, even though it is challenging to replicate traditional classroom experiences. Using the fuzzy Delphi technique, the methodology adapts inclusive digital teaching to changing needs, stressing infrastructure, accessibility, personalized learning, digital skills development, and teacher capabilities. Malaysia is working to become a global leader in education by using ICT to support student-centered learning and develop digital skills, in line with the National Digital Policy. The results show a strong potential for building a thorough digital education system. This integration has important effects on improving educational infrastructure, accessibility, and teacher skills, helping Malaysia establish itself as a leader in the global education scene.

Enhancing environmental sustainability in a Circular Waste Bioeconomy: A hierarchical framework driven by operational efficiency and agro-energy management

The increasing generation of agro-waste poses environmental and economic challenges. Traditional farming practices often neglect the potential for agro-waste valorization, leading to inefficient disposal and resource wastage. This study addresses the lack of hierarchical models to guide the implementation of Circular Waste Bioeconomy (CWBE) by developing such a model and identifying key driving aspects and practical criteria. A mixed method combining the fuzzy Delphi method and fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory is adopted for attribute validity and the analysis of cause-and-effect interrelationships. The results reveal that operational efficiency and agro-energy management are crucial drivers for enhancing environmental sustainability, cascading use, and developing bio-based markets. Key criteria for CWBE implementation in Colombia include life cycle assessment, biomass technology adoption, waste flow mapping, incentivizing stewardship behavior, bioenergy adoption, and value optimization. This study contributes to the CWBE literature by providing a hierarchical framework and actionable insights to guide policymakers and practitioners in promoting sustainable agro-waste management.

Small Medium Industries’ Non-Technical Skills Preferences in FacingIndustry Revolution 4.0: AFuzzy Delphi Technique

Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) sector plays a crucial role in boosting the country's economy. Despite their potentially small size, their impact on economic growth, job creation, and local community development is highly significant. However, SMEs often face challenges related to a lack of non-technical skills among their workforce.This study not only enhances SME’s opperational efficiency, it also enhanced the workforce readiness towards Industry 4.0.Employees who posses strong non-technichal skills can adapt to new technologies and process more effectively. Therefore, this study aims to determine the priority of non-technical skills for SMEs. The study employs a two-phase research design, consisting of (1) a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) and (2) the Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM). In Phase 1, the researcher applies the PRISMA model as a guide to conducting an SLR on 129 articles identified through the Google Scholar database. The results of thesystematic literature review indicate the existence of 14 non-technical skills for SMEs in the context of Industry 4.0. The FDM is utilized to obtain expert consensus on these skills. Ten SME owners in the Batu Pahat area are selected as study participants. The FDM analysis reveals that the expert panel agrees that all the non-technical skills identified in previous studies are crucial for SMEs in Industry 4.0. Non-technical skills are prioritized for SMEs based on expert opinions. Creativity is identifiedas the highest-priority non-technical skill according to the SME owners' perspectives. The implications of this study serve as exposure and guidance for employers, employees, and the community regarding the importance of non-technical skills for SMEs in the current Industry 4.0 landscape.

Simulating the Effects of Internal Marketing on Patient Satisfaction Development in Hospitals of Ardabil Province, Iran

Background: To gain and maintain stable competitive advantages, hospitals are currently seeking novel strategies for Patient Satisfaction Development (PSD). To this end, hospitals are required to establish strategies for improvement and provide basic platforms; one of these strategies is Internal Marketing (IM). This type of marketing typically demands customer-oriented behavior and thinking by all hospital staff in terms of dealing with patients. Accordingly, the current research recommends a simulation pattern for PSD within hospitals in Ardabil Province, Iran, considering the predominant factors affecting IM. Methods: This study, utilizing a qualitative-quantitative research design, was conducted on a statistical population of 17 theoretical (the university professors) and experimental (hospital managers) experts. The sampling technique was of the non-probability type and purposive, and the data collection tools were interviews and questionnaires. In the qualitative phase, the main themes and sub-themes of IM in the hospitals of Ardabil Province, Iran, were initially identified by thematic analysis. Then, in the quantitative phase, the major factors were prioritized via the fuzzy Delphi method, and finally, the effects of IM on PSD were simulated through agent-based modeling. Data analysis in the qualitative phase was done with MaxQDA 20 software, and Microsoft Excel and AnyLogic 8.9 were operated in the quantitative one. Results: Based on the study results, 35 primary codes, 12 sub-themes, and three main themes (organizational, occupational, and individual) were obtained. In light of this, the organizational factors were introduced as the most effective ones. Besides, the study results suggested that the PSD prospect in the hospitals of Ardabil Province, Iran, reached 70 % at the end of the simulation. Conclusion: According to the study results, it is suggested that hospital managers devote much attention to the effective factors in IM, specially the organizational ones, as they play a leading role in PSD.

A 5G competency model based on the fuzzy Delphi method

A 5G competency model based on the fuzzy Delphi method

Development of Data-Driven Educational Decision Implementation Guidelines Assisted by Formative Tests in Science Learning

Data-Based Educational Decisions (DDED) is an important part of the learning process where DDED is used to improve the quality of learning. This research purpose to develop Data Driven Educational Decision Implementation Guidelines (DDED) supporting formative tests in IPA learning. DDED is an adaptation of Data Drive Decision Making (DDDM) in learning. DDED is based on Data Drive Decision Making (DDDM), which is a decision-making process that has been widely applied in the world of management. The DDED directs teachers to be adaptive and flexible in implementing various methods, models, teaching materials and learning media based on student access. The development design used is 4D which consists of defining, designing, developing and deploying. The content of the guidelines has been agreed through expert consensus through the fuzzy delphi technique. Fuzzy Delphi Method to create a broad and detailed understanding, especially in education. The consensus indicated that formative tests should include relevant questions and quizzes, comprising both multiple-choice and essay formats, aligning with the principles of DDED. The resulting guideline tests the level of validity and user response. Users respond well to the guidelines developed.

Barriers in adopting green human resource management under uncertainty: the case of Indonesia banking industry

PurposeThis study investigates the barriers to adopting green human resource management (GHRM) under uncertain conditions by integrating the resource-based view (RBV) and stakeholder theory.Design/methodology/approachA board of experts, which consisted of 28 practitioners and two academics, was invited to participate in the research. The fuzzy Delphi and fuzzy decision-making trials and evaluation laboratory were utilized to achieve the study's objectives.FindingsThe findings indicate that barriers encompass 14 criteria and five attributes. Among the 14 criteria, the banking industry's lack of green culture, lack of trust in green benefits, employee's capacity to change, lack of support from top management and absence of a comprehensive plan to implement GHRM are significant barriers. The attributes are management, human resources, organizational, regulatory and customer barriers.Practical implicationsImplementing GHRM in Indonesian banking necessitates practical policies and gradual adaptation strategies. Companies should establish standard operating procedures, reward systems and periodic habit changes to embed green practices effectively.Originality/valueThis study is among the first to employ stakeholder theory and the RBV in examining the barriers to green human resources adoption in the banking industry.

Application of Fuzzy Delphi Method in the Design of Reading Digital Modul for University Students in Riau

Application of Fuzzy Delphi Method in the Design of Reading Digital Modul for University Students in Riau

Future workplace reimagination: A multiscenario analysis on entrepreneurial small and medium internationalisers

AbstractThis paper aims to encounter the scholarly demand for comprehensive identification and investigation of the factors that highlight the sense of the “workplace of the future.” Besides, this study sheds in‐depth qualitative and quantitative insights into analysing such drivers in international entrepreneurial small and medium enterprises of emerging economies like Iran. A mixed method of systematic literature review and hesitant triangular fuzzy Delphi was initially employed to identify and finalise the significant factors. Afterwards, the causal level‐based relationship network and the finalised factors' power map were accomplished for three distinct scenarios (i.e., the pessimistic, probable and optimistic conditions). To this end, a novel integration of hesitant triangular fuzzy sets and interpretive structural modelling‐matrix‐based multiplication applied to a classification was designed and applied. As a result, future workplace concerns were systematically reviewed. From the initial list of 34 factors, eight were selected from the perspective of three panels of experts (15 international entrepreneurs) as the most crucial for international small and medium enterprises due to implementing the hesitant triangular fuzzy sets. Furthermore, the selected factors were categorised and levelled according to the novel interpretive structural modelling‐matrix‐based multiplication applied to a classification method developed in this article. Accordingly, for each scenario studied, from low to high uncertainty and indeterminacy, a separate conceptual model illustrating the relationship among the factors propelling the reimagining of the future of the workplace was presented.

Exploring management strategies for Private Islamic Schools in the deep south of Thailand using the PMDG guidelines: An application of Fuzzy Delphi method

Developing educational institution strategies empowers them to capitalize on strengths and opportunities, addressing gaps for advancement. Private Islamic schools in southern Thailand, nearly 500 in number, can enhance their performance by adopting management strategies inspired by the successful Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor (PMDG) boarding school model. This study aims to develop such strategies and activities for these schools, guided by PMDG principles and selected through the Fuzzy Delphi method. The study employed mixed methods research with an exploratory sequential design. It began by formulating strategies based on PMDG guidelines, followed by expert-led discussions involving 10 individuals. Activities were then developed for each strategy, deliberated upon in a workshop with 89 participants. Strategies and activities were presented to expert groups and PMDG faculty, comprising 21 individuals. Finally, the Fuzzy Delphi method was used to select the top three activities for each strategy, with input from 18 experts. The research produced 12 strategies and 79 activities, with 36 emerging as top choices. These strategies and activities aim to empower private schools to provide Islamic education, not only in Thailand but also internationally. Their adaptability ensures they align with the unique context of each school and its surroundings.