Evaluating the technological competencies and determining key capabilities in technology management using fuzzy analytical hierarchy process

Abstract

In this paper, a fuzzy analytic hierarchy (FAHP) methodology is proposed to select the most appropriate technology alternative in respect to micro- and macroergonomics. Both micro ergonomics criteria and macroergonomics evaluation criteria such as cultural variables, managerial and organizational methods transfer, which are not quantitative in nature, are considered for selection. From the analytical point of view, decision-makers are asked to express their opinions on comparative importance of various factors in linguistic terms rather than exact numerical values. These linguistic variable scales, such as "very high", "high", "medium", "low" and "very low", are then converted into fuzzy numbers, since it becomes more meaningful to quantify a subjective measurement into a range rather than in an exact value. The fuzzy appropriate indices of different technologies are then ranked and preferential ranking orders of technologies are found. To deal quantitatively with imprecision or uncertainty, triangular fuzzy numbers are used throughout the analysis. A comprehensive numerical example consisting of two alternatives is provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.