Partner Selection and Evaluation in Virtual Research Center Based on Trapezoidal Fuzzy AHP

To the reduce the complexity and the uncertainty in selecting cooperation partner of virtual research center, a comprehensive evaluation model based on AHP and basic theory of the trapezoidal fuzzy number was proposed. In the model, the judgment matrix was first structured in trapezoid fuzzy number and the priority weights of criteria and sub-criteria were calculated, then the consistency of judgment matrix was tested in the necessary and sufficient condition of consistency. In the end, the alternatives are ranked with the integration of the fuzzy gravity method and the mean square difference method. Applying the trapezoidal fuzzy number makes the model combine qualitative analysis with quantitative analysis effectively, reduce influences of subjective factors and select the best cooperative partner objectively. In addition, the model can be easily programmed due to its simple, normative arithmetic formulas, thus can be widely used in practice. An example is presented where are four main criteria, sixteen sub-criteria and three alternatives.