The application of VIKOR for the tool selection in lean management

Abstract

Given that there is a large gap between the results of group-based decision-making and reality when using the same set of evaluation criteria to select the tool for lean management, this research uses the improved VIKOR method to select the tool based on an examination of a yogurt production line. Consequently, (1) the improved VIKOR method is able to make priority decisions, according to different evaluation criteria. On this basis, we develop a tool selection model for lean management which is able to avoid the limitations of using the same set of evaluation criteria to measure all alternative tools; (2) the selection model is not sensitive to the coefficient of the selection mechanism and the weight of the evaluation criteria, and so its results are very stable; and (3) the selection model ensures the maximizing utility of group based decision-making and minimizing regret of individuals, in other words, avoiding the inferior solutions.