A prototype expert system for the evaluation and selection of potential suppliers

Abstract

Suggests that the evaluation and selection of potential suppliers is becoming a more important and critical decision in today’s competitive operating environment. Reveals that many firms are reducing their number of suppliers and the supplier base may provide a company with a strategic competitive advantage. Explains that the supplier selection decision now involves many judgemental factors in addition to the historical selection criteria. Offers a prototype expert system which enables users to evaluate and select a potential supplier based on the strategic importance of the product involved, quantitative data and qualitative factors. The system’s early validation results show its potential as an effective decision‐making aid.

Citation

Vokurka, R.J., Choobineh, J. and Vadi, L. (1996), "A prototype expert system for the evaluation and selection of potential suppliers", International Journal of Operations & Production Management, Vol. 16 No. 12, pp. 106-127. https://doi.org/10.1108/01443579610151788