Ranking based on optimal points and win-loss-draw multi-criteria decision-making with application to supplier evaluation problem

Supplier evaluation is a complex multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem that deals with assessment of suppliers as the potential alternatives against various types of criteria. We consider the context where decision makers (DMs) have complete information about the suppliers and criteria. To address the needs of decision makers, a multi-criteria evaluation method named Ranking based on optimal points (RBOP) is developed in this paper. By imitating and simulating human decision-making behavioural patterns, the developed MCDM method selects the best alternative that is closer to what the DM desires. Furthermore, a novel subjective MCDM weighting methods called win-loss-draw (WLD) method is also developed, which is also based on human behavioural pattern. A real case study of domestic cheese brands is considered to apply the developed methods to select the best cheese supplier for an Iranian hypermarket. Compared to other MCDM methods, outputs of the RBOP method show some differences due to the impact of WLD method, which intensified divergence and optimal points during the decision-making process.