Using fuzzy inference systems to improve purchasing process-related decisions

Supplier evaluation and selection processes have strategic aspects and implications in the long run for a company. However a literature review surfaces a high number of variables involved in such processes and the variety of different methodologies to be used. In order to overcome the drawbacks present in some methodologies we propose a fuzzy decision system that considers the most significant variables and allows to evaluate and compare new suppliers to historical ones as well as to update the list of the certified ones. This model not only strengthens the operating of the model but also eases the understanding of the process-related knowledge. A survey test is used for validation purposes.