Integrated QFD-MCDM framework for green supplier selection

Abstract

Supplier evaluation and selection is a significant strategic decision for reducing operating costs and improving organizational competitiveness to develop business opportunities. Moreover, with increasing concern towards environmental protection and sustainable development, it becomes important to pay more attention to environmental requirements and evaluating the potential suppliers by incorporating green factors into the selection process. Thus, the aim of this paper is to put forward an integrated approach for green supplier selection by considering various environmental performance requirements and criteria. The proposed approach addresses the inter-relationships between the customer requirements (CRs) with the aid of decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method while constructing a relationship structure. Quality function deployment (QFD) model is used to establish a central relationship matrix in order to identify degree of relationship between each pair of supplier selection criteria and CRs. Finally, complex proportional assessment (COPRAS) applied to prioritize and rank the alternative suppliers. A case study is presented to reveal the potentiality and aptness of the proposed methodology.