Partner selection and evaluation in agile virtual enterprise based upon TFN-AHP model

To solve some problems caused by the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) or other fuzzy-AHP approaches to partner selection and evaluation in the formation of agile virtual enterprises, a model based on the AHP and basic theory of the trigonometrical fuzzy number (TFN) was given and corresponding evaluation process was described. Compared with the AHP the proposed model combines subjective analysis with quantitative analysis more reasonably, synthesizes group opinions more adequately. The model derives priorities from TFN-based judgment matrices effectively, regardless of their inconsistency. In addition, the model can be programmed easily due to its simple, normative arithmetic formulas. The results of a case study on selecting suppliers in an agile virtual enterprise indicate that, by applying the model-based software system, not only fair and reasonable conclusions, but also the consistent degree of opinions provided by different experts can be acquired clearly.