Fuzzy TOPSIS‐based computerized maintenance management system selection

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a structured methodology to permit the optimal selection of the best‐suited computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) software within maintenance information technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis has been executed adopting a multi‐attribute decision‐making methodology, namely the technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS). For the selection process, 17 criteria under five main heading have been defined. Data obtained from questionnaires and interviews with the company's maintenance managers have been used in fuzzy TOPSIS.

Findings

The application of the proposed approach allows the maintenance practitioners to concentrate on a limited subset of CMMS applications and to compare their actual capabilities in order to select the right one, rather than considering only their purchase cost.

Research limitations/implications

Comparisons with other multi‐attribute decision‐making techniques such as AHP (analytic hierarchy process) and ELECTRE (elimination and choice expressing reality) under fuzzy conditions can be done for further research.

Practical implications

This paper is a very useful source of information both for maintenance managers and stakeholders in making decisions about the selection of CMMS software.

Originality/value

This paper addresses CMMS software evaluation and selection criteria for practitioners and proposes a new multi‐attribute decision‐making methodology, hierarchical fuzzy TOPSIS, for the problem.

Citation

Uysal, F. and Tosun, Ö. (2012), "Fuzzy TOPSIS‐based computerized maintenance management system selection", Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, Vol. 23 No. 2, pp. 212-228. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410381211202205