Decision rules for supplier selection using intuitionistic fuzzy TOPSIS

Abstract

This paper provides a methodology for addressing contradiction in the ranking of suppliers when more than one metric functions are adopted in intuitionistic fuzzy TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution) for supplier selection. Our literature search revealed contradictions when more than one metric functions are adopted in the method.  Two types of contradictions were addressed: (i) contradiction of the best supplier, and (ii) contradiction at the middle of the park.  Decision rules algorithms were developed to address the problems.Worked examples were given to illustrate the rules for resolving the contradiction. A major thrust of this paper is the adoption of odd number of metric functions with the use of the ballot strategy. This paper use three metric functions which are Spherical, Euclidean and Hamming metric fuctions. In case of contradiction, the alternatve that gives majority of same rank with respect to the metrics fuctions  is selected.

Keywords: Supplier Selection; Intuitionistic fuzzy TOPSIS; Metric Functions; Contraditions; contradiction of best alternatives; contradiction at the middle of the park;