Analysis of Decision Support Systems of Industrial Relevance: Application Potential of Fuzzy and Grey Set Theories

The present work articulates few case empirical studies on decision making in industrial context. Development of variety of Decision Support System (DSS) under uncertainty and vague information is attempted herein. The study emphases on five important decision making domains where effective decision making may surely enhance overall performance of the organization. The focused territories of this work are i) robot selection, ii) g-resilient supplier selection, iii) third party logistics (3PL) service provider selection, iv) assessment of supply chain’s g-resilient index and v) risk assessment in e-commerce exercises. Firstly, decision support systems in relation to robot selection are conceptualized through adaptation to fuzzy set theory in integration with TODIM and PROMETHEE approach, Grey set theory is also found useful in this regard; and is combined with TODIM approach to identify the best robot alternative. In this work, an attempt is also made to tackle subjective (qualitative) and objective (quantitative) evaluation information simultaneously, towards effective decision making. Supplier selection is a key strategic concern for the large-scale organizations. In view of this, a novel decision support framework is proposed to address g-resilient (green and resilient) supplier selection issues. Green capability of suppliers’ ensures the pollution free operation; while, resiliency deals with unexpected system disruptions. A comparative analysis of the results is also carried out by applying well-known decision making approaches like Fuzzy- TOPSIS and Fuzzy-VIKOR. In relation to 3PL service provider selection, this dissertation proposes a novel ‘Dominance- Based’ model in combination with grey set theory to deal with 3PL provider selection, considering linguistic preferences of the Decision-Makers (DMs). An empirical case study is articulated to demonstrate application potential of the proposed model. The results, obtained thereof, have been compared to that of grey-TOPSIS approach. Another part of this dissertation is to provide an integrated framework in order to assess gresilient (ecosilient) performance of the supply chain of a case automotive company. The overall g-resilient supply chain performance is determined by computing a unique ecosilient (g-resilient) index. The concepts of Fuzzy Performance Importance Index (FPII) along with Degree of Similarity (DOS) (obtained from fuzzy set theory) are applied to rank different gresilient criteria in accordance to their current status of performance. The study is further extended to analyze, and thereby, to mitigate various risk factors (risk sources) involved in e-commerce exercises. A total forty eight major e-commerce risks are recognized and evaluated in a decision making perspective by utilizing the knowledge acquired from the fuzzy set theory. Risk is evaluated as a product of two risk quantifying parameters viz. (i) Likelihood of occurrence and, (ii) Impact. Aforesaid two risk quantifying parameters are assessed in a subjective manner (linguistic human judgment), rather than exploring probabilistic approach of risk analysis. The ‘crisp risk extent’ corresponding to various risk factors are figured out through the proposed fuzzy risk analysis approach. The risk factor possessing high ‘crisp risk extent’ score is said be more critical for the current problem context (toward e-commerce success). Risks are now categorized into different levels of severity (adverse consequences) (i.e. negligible, minor, marginal, critical and catastrophic). Amongst forty eight risk sources, top five risk sources which are supposed to adversely affect the company’s e-commerce performance are recognized through such categorization. The overall risk extent is determined by aggregating individual risks (under ‘critical’ level of severity) using Fuzzy Inference System (FIS). Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) is then used to obtain structural relationship amongst aforementioned five risk sources. An appropriate action requirement plan is also suggested, to control and minimize risks associated with e-commerce exercises

Modeling and analysing the barriers to the acceptance of energy-efficient appliances using an ISM-DEMATEL approach

Electricity savings from energy-efficient appliances (EEAs) may have a significant impact on reducing global warming. There are several barriers confronted by EEAs, which have lowered their acceptance rate. The current study identifies and highlights key barriers to strengthening domestic sector adoption of EEAs in developing countries. In the current study, thirteen barriers were discovered by an indepth literature review and the judgement of experts as well. Further, integrated “Interpretive Structural Modeling” (ISM) and “Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory” (DEMATEL) approaches are utilized to evaluate barriers. The ISM technique is implemented to categorize barriers into distinct hierarchy levels, and “Cross-Impact Matrix Multiplication Applied to Classification” (MICMAC) analysis to divide barriers among four clusters “independent, linkage, dependent, and autonomous”. Moreover, the DEMATEL methodology is applied to classify the barriers among cause and effect clusters. The integrated ISM and DEMATEL approach suggests that the topmost influencing barriers to the acceptance of EEAs are the lack of Government policies and initiatives, lack of attractive loan financing, and subsidized energy prices. This study would help researchers, regulators, producers, policymakers, and consumers to comprehend the need for additional developments and understand that the adoption of EEAs is a current need. Overall, the results of this study expedite stakeholders with the key barriers that may assist to enhance the acceptance of EEAs within the domestic sector. An extensive literature survey showed a dearth of studies for the identification, modeling, and analysis of barriers collectively. Therefore, the current work utilized the ISM and DEMATEL approaches to fill the gap and to provide more comprehensive knowledge on barriers related to the acceptance of EEA

Ranking Risks of BOT Toll Road Investment Projects in Indonesia Using Fuzzy Interpretive Structural Modelling

The Government of Indonesia implemented the Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) model, relying on private investment to bridge the financing gap in developing public infrastructure facilities, including toll roads. Toll road investments, like other greenfield infrastructure projects, are typically characterized by high project risk, which discourages private sector investment. Many previous studies have investigated the various risk events in toll road investment projects, but only a few have assessed the interrelationships of risk events in the Indonesian context. This study fills this knowledge gap by determining which risk event influences other events most. Fuzzy interpretive structural modelling combined with the matrix impact of cross-references multiplication applied to a classification method was used to determine the hierarchy of risk events and analyze their influences on other risk events. A total of fourteen risk events were identified and analyzed. An unclear output specification was found to be the most significant risk event, with the biggest driving power affecting other risks. The findings and limitations of this study point the way forward for future research

Sustainable supply chain modeling and analysis: Past debate, present problems and future challenges

For the last two decades, the topic of sustainable supply chains has evoked considerable interest from academics and practitioners. Within this context, Resources, Conservation and Recycling (RCR) and its two predecessors (Resources and Conservation, and Conservation and Recycling) have provided a platform for the exchange of technological, economic, institutional and policy aspects to help societies transition toward sustainability. The current article analyses the published research works in the RCR literature within the context of sustainable supply chain modeling by employing a content analysis literature review technique. Using the body of available literature in RCR, the articles on sustainable supply chain are analyzed in terms of the following: (1) publication per year, (2) top-cited papers across time, (3) most productive and influential authors, institutions and countries (4) supply chain related topical themes, (5) research methodologies applied, (6) illustration types and (7) industries addressed. The analysis revealed that the call for incorporating sustainability (i.e., economic, social, and environmental pillars) into supply chain operations has increased in recent years in RCR publications. Finally, the comprehensive findings and interpretations are presented, as well as the primary current trends, future challenges, directions and opportunities

Interpretive structural model of key performance indicators for sustainable manufacturing evaluation in automotive companies

This paper aims to analyze the interrelationships among the key performance indicators of sustainable manufacturing evaluation in automotive companies. The initial key performance indicators have been identified and derived from literature and were then validated by industry survey. Interpretive structural modeling (ISM) methodology is applied to develop a hierarchical structure of the key performance indicators in three levels. Of nine indicators, there are five unstable indicators which have both high driver and dependence power, thus requiring further attention. It is believed that the model can provide a better insight for automotive managers in assessing their sustainable manufacturing performance

The role of green and traditional supplier attributes on business performance

Supplier evaluation and selection are fundamental tasks since they are part of the production process and even initiate the supply chain (SC). Despite their importance in the production system, supplier evaluation and selection may be challenging activities to be performed if companies look at the wide range of available evaluation techniques and methodologies, which now seek to integrate both traditional and green attributes. In addition, companies may refuse to take into account green attributes during the supplier selection process, because they do not know their impact on commercial benefits. To overcome this limitation, this study examines the Mexican manufacturing sector and measures the impact of supplier traditional attributes and green attributes on business performance, namely production process benefits and commercial benefits. As data collection instrument, we administered a survey to 253 supplier evaluators and selectors; then, using the gathered data, we constructed a structural equation model. The model includes four variables to determine the impact of traditional and green attributes on business performance: green attributes, traditional attributes, production process benefits, and commercial benefits. The results indicate that all the latent variables have positive direct effects on one another. For instance, process benefits show the largest effects on commercial benefits, but the most significant effect is caused by traditional attributes on commercial benefits through green attributes and production process benefits. © 2017 by the authors

MODELLING FRAMEWORK FOR CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS OF GREEN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT-AN INTEGRATED APPROACH OF PARETO, ISM AND SEM

The study aimed in identifying Green supply chain critical success factors, develop and validate the framework through integrated approach of ISM, MICMAC and SEM so as to promote green practices throughout the supply chain activities in Indian manufacturing sectors. Interpretive structural modelling(ISM) is applied to develop hierarchical contextual relationship among identified critical success factors via Pareto analysis. The methodology then follows classification of success factors into four clusters by Matrice d’ Impacts Croisés-Multiplication Appliquée á un Classement (MICMAC) and statistical validation of the ISM model through Structural Equation Modelling(SEM) by AMOS. In this study, 16 critical success factors of Green supply chain practices for manufacturing industries were identified, followed by development of an ISM model using 16 critical success factors, later the model was statistically verified that identified nine CSF’s responsible for generating SEM model by satisfying all the model fit indices.The linkage variables identified are Green manufacturing, Green Procurement, Green marketing and Distribution, Green purchasing, Supplier cooperation, Customer cooperation, Environmental strategies and management, Environmental Participation and Green training that are forming the driving force for practicing green supply chain. Research limitations/implications: The results of the study are restricted to manufacturing industries, which might vary when applied for other sectors. The developed model on green supply chain management practices would help policy makers, decision makers, researchers and industry professionals to anticipate potential success factors to implement green supply chain practices. Accordingly, the focus on critical success factors would be prioritized for obtaining better performance of supply chain and greening the chain

Model for green supply chain adoption : an empirical analysis of industrial sectors in MENA developing countries

Because of the role of the green supply chain in reducing environmental damage and negative impacts to industries around the world, it has become important for companies. GSCM practices are considered to be environmentally friendly and help improve energy efficiency, water use efficiency, waste management, environmental preservation, reuse and recycling, toxic and hazardous materials management and finally transportation routes. On the emerging economy side, the adoption and practice of green supply chain management systems have not been widely discussed yet. In this research, the researcher demonstrated the importance and the impact of Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) dimensions, firm practices and supply chain practices on the supply chain practices and the green supply chain adoption and the Supplier Relationship Management and Customer Relationship Management. This research aims to identify the various drivers and barriers that affect companies’ decision to adopt the green supply chain in industries, as well as setting the dimensions of TOE in promoting the adoption of green supply chain systems. Firstly, the research presented the opinions of previous literature on the barriers and motivations that affect the adoption of GSCM, as well as a review of the literature that discusses the dimensions of TOE. Then a research methodology was developed that aims to collect and analyze appropriate data aiming to address the research question, and it conducts an experimental study on how the research variables are statistically related, which are Customer Relationship, Supplier Relationship, Supplier Selection, Internal Collaboration, Top Management Support, Green Supply Chain Management, Coercive Pressure, Normative Pressure, Mimetic Pressure, Market Pressure, Green purchasing, Barrier for GSCM, and Drivers for GSCM by using statistical tools, discussing the research results in a critical manner, then comparing them with the results of previous literature, shedding light on the theoretical and practical research contributions and determining the limits of research and future research areas. The deduction approach has been utilized in this research as well as the quantitative method using a structured questionnaire that has been collected from 405 respondents. The researcher has implemented a triangulation method to validate the dimensions of the research through qualitative data obtained through interviews and were then analyzed through making extracts of the interviews that can help in making overall assessment of the responses and help in comparing the responses obtained from the management. Also, the researcher has used focus groups to validate the proposed conceptual framework. The research indicated that there is a significant relationship between the environmental, organizational and Technological dimensions and firm practices and supply chain practices. There is a significant relationship between drivers, barriers and firm practices and supply chain practices and the green supply chain adoption, and there is a significant relationship between Green Supply Chain Adoption and both Supplier Relationship Management and Customer Relationship Management. Keywords: TOE Dimensions, Green Supply Chain Management Practices, Green Supply Chain Adoption.Because of the role of the green supply chain in reducing environmental damage and negative impacts to industries around the world, it has become important for companies. GSCM practices are considered to be environmentally friendly and help improve energy efficiency, water use efficiency, waste management, environmental preservation, reuse and recycling, toxic and hazardous materials management and finally transportation routes. On the emerging economy side, the adoption and practice of green supply chain management systems have not been widely discussed yet. In this research, the researcher demonstrated the importance and the impact of Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) dimensions, firm practices and supply chain practices on the supply chain practices and the green supply chain adoption and the Supplier Relationship Management and Customer Relationship Management. This research aims to identify the various drivers and barriers that affect companies’ decision to adopt the green supply chain in industries, as well as setting the dimensions of TOE in promoting the adoption of green supply chain systems. Firstly, the research presented the opinions of previous literature on the barriers and motivations that affect the adoption of GSCM, as well as a review of the literature that discusses the dimensions of TOE. Then a research methodology was developed that aims to collect and analyze appropriate data aiming to address the research question, and it conducts an experimental study on how the research variables are statistically related, which are Customer Relationship, Supplier Relationship, Supplier Selection, Internal Collaboration, Top Management Support, Green Supply Chain Management, Coercive Pressure, Normative Pressure, Mimetic Pressure, Market Pressure, Green purchasing, Barrier for GSCM, and Drivers for GSCM by using statistical tools, discussing the research results in a critical manner, then comparing them with the results of previous literature, shedding light on the theoretical and practical research contributions and determining the limits of research and future research areas. The deduction approach has been utilized in this research as well as the quantitative method using a structured questionnaire that has been collected from 405 respondents. The researcher has implemented a triangulation method to validate the dimensions of the research through qualitative data obtained through interviews and were then analyzed through making extracts of the interviews that can help in making overall assessment of the responses and help in comparing the responses obtained from the management. Also, the researcher has used focus groups to validate the proposed conceptual framework. The research indicated that there is a significant relationship between the environmental, organizational and Technological dimensions and firm practices and supply chain practices. There is a significant relationship between drivers, barriers and firm practices and supply chain practices and the green supply chain adoption, and there is a significant relationship between Green Supply Chain Adoption and both Supplier Relationship Management and Customer Relationship Management. Keywords: TOE Dimensions, Green Supply Chain Management Practices, Green Supply Chain Adoption