Supplier Selection using Fuzzy-AHP approach for Consumer Durables Start-ups

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to select the best possible supplier for start-up organizations operating in consumer durables sector

Design/Methodology/Approach - This research adopts a combination of Fuzzy and AHP model built in MS Excel considering the ease of use and unavailability of resources with start-ups. Model integrates qualitative as well as quantitative factors for evaluating the alternatives available. The factors considered are based on organization’s discretion and can be changed as per the strategy of that particular firm.

Findings - Model adopted helps the firm to choose the best possible supplier based on holistic evaluation of all the factors considered. It also reduces the time to select the supplier and results in cost savings for the firm.

Research Implications/Limitations - This research helps the firms to focus more on using simple models for supplier selection in case of unavailability of ERP systems and considering their strategy as being cost effective in initial stages of their launch in the market.

Practical Implications - Research encourages firms to adopt simple models and focus on reducing cost through proper selection of their suppliers which can help them to reduce significant cost in upstream supply chain.

Originality Value - There are lot of existing studies based on Fuzzy AHP model. But this study solely focuses on consumer durables sector of India and targets small enterprises which lacks infrastructure and spend lot of time in supplier selection through extensive documentation comparison