An integrated fuzzy group decision making approach for evaluation and selection of best simulation software packages

摘要

Today techniques of system simulation have become an important tool in the modern decision making science. Selecting an inappropriate simulation software package could lead to incorrect results and costly and adversely effects on organisational performance. The success of simulation depends on the ability to select a suitable simulation software package for an intended application. This study presents an integrated approach for evaluation and selection of best simulation software packages. Due to the strategic nature of this issue, the proposed approach includes: 1) criteria extracted from the literature on evaluating simulation software packages; 2) a framework based on fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (fuzzy AHP) and fuzzy technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution (fuzzy TOPSIS), for selecting simulation software package; 3) an empirical study with data gathered from experts' judgment to show applicability and superiority of the proposed model. In addition, the results are validated through sensitivity analysis.