Interval type 2-fuzzy TOPSIS and fuzzy TOPSIS method in supplier selection in garment industry

Abstract

Supplier selection requires the consideration of multiple factors, and it can be viewed as a multi criteria decision making (MCDM) problem. Fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarly to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) is one of the most frequently used methods in solving several MCDM problems. Lately, fuzzy TOPSIS has been combined with interval type-2 fuzzy sets. Interval type-2 fuzzy sets include more uncertainties than type-1 fuzzy sets. They ensure us flexibility to indicate the uncertainty and the fuzziness of the real world. Therefore, in this study, interval type 2-Fuzzy TOPSIS and fuzzy TOPSIS methods were used for selection of the best supplier, at "X" garment firm operating in Turkey. At the end of this study, the best supplier selection is made through comparing the results obtained from both two methods. As a result, "A3" supplier has become the best supplier among alternatives according to the results obtained from comparing because the selection of the "A3" supplier will contribute significantly to the enterprise in point of both benefit and cost.