Search Results (53)

Dynamic multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) is widely applied in complex real-world settings where multiple experts evaluate alternatives across diverse criteria under uncertain and evolving conditions. This study proposes a transparent and interpretable linguistic (L-) framework for dynamic MCGDM grounded in hedge algebras (HA), a mathematical formalism that provides explicit algebraic and semantic structures for L-domains. A novel binary L-aggregation operator is developed using the 4-tuple semantic representation of HA, ensuring closure, commutativity, monotonicity, partial associativity, the existence of an identity element, and semantic consistency throughout the aggregation process. Using this operator, a two-stage dynamic decision-making model is developed—(i) L-FAHP for determining the criterion weights in dynamic environments, and (ii) L-FTOPSIS for ranking alternatives—where both methods are formulated on HA L-scales. To address temporal dynamics, a dynamic L-aggregation mechanism is further proposed to integrate current expert judgments with historical evaluations through a semantic decay factor, enabling the controlled attenuation of outdated information. A case study on enterprise digital transformation readiness illustrates that the proposed framework enhances semantic interpretability, maintains stability under uncertainty, and more accurately captures the temporal evolution of expert assessments. These results underscore the practical value and applicability of the HA-based dynamic L-approach in complex decision environments where expert knowledge and temporal variability are critical. Full article

This paper extends a novel method for fuzzifying crisp ontologies through a fuzzy Multi-Criteria Group Decision-Making (MCGDM) approach. The key feature of the method is the achievement of a geometric compromise obtained by minimising distances among the best alternatives provided by experts, and by assigning and refining membership degrees for entities and relations in order to better capture uncertainty and vagueness. Its effectiveness is demonstrated on two case studies, the Cognitive Task Ontology (CogiTO) and the BrainTeaser Ontology (BTO), which showcase the potential of the proposed method in complex decision-making scenarios. Many applications are possible, including the enhancement of knowledge integration and the development of more informative reasoning under uncertainty. Full article

Trapezoidal-valued intuitionistic fuzzy numbers (TrVIFNs) are the real generalizations of intuitionistic fuzzy numbers, interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy numbers, and triangular intuitionistic fuzzy numbers, which effectively model real-life problems that consist of imprecise and incomplete data. This study incorporates the Aczel-Alsina aggregation operators (which consist of parameter-based flexibility) for solving any group of decision-making problems modeled in a trapezoidal-valued intuitionistic fuzzy (TrVIF) environment. In this study, we first define new operations on TrVIFNs based on the Aczel-Alsina operations. Secondly, we introduce new trapezoidal-valued intuitionistic fuzzy aggregation operators, such as the TrVIF Aczel-Alsina weighted averaging operator, the TrVIF Aczel-Alsina ordered weighted averaging operator, and the TrVIF Aczel-Alsina hybrid averaging operator, and we discuss their fundamental mathematical properties by examining various theorems. This study also includes a new algorithm named ‘three-stage multi-criteria group decision-making’, where we obtain the criteria weights using the newly proposed TrVIF-MEREC method. Additionally, we introduce a new modified algorithm called TrVIF-WASPAS to solve the multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem in the trapezoidal-valued intuitionistic fuzzy environment. Then, we apply this proposed method to solve a model case study problem involving location selection for a wind power plant project. Then, we discuss the proposed algorithm’s sensitivity analysis by changing the criteria weights concerning different parameter values. Finally, we compare our proposed methods with various existing methods, like some subclasses of TrVIFNs such as IVIFWA, IVIFWG, IVIFEWA, and IVIFEWG, and also with some MCGDM methods of TrVIFNs, such as the Dombi aggregation operator-based method in TrVIFNs and the TrVIF-Topsis method-based MCGDM, to show the efficacy of our proposed algorithm. This study has many advantages, as it consists of a total ordering principle in ranking alternatives in the newly proposed TrVIF-MCGDM techniques and TrVIF-WASPAS MCDM techniques for the first time in the literature. Full article

As global e-commerce expands, efficient cross-border logistics services have become essential. To support the evaluation of logistics service providers (LSPs), we propose HD-CBDTOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution with heterogeneous data and cloud Bhattacharyya distance), a hybrid multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) model designed to handle complex, uncertain data. Our criteria system integrates traditional supplier evaluation with cross-border e-commerce characteristics, using heterogeneous data types—including exact numbers, intervals, digital datasets, multi-granularity linguistic terms, and linguistic expressions. These are unified using normal cloud models (NCMs), ensuring uncertainty is consistently represented. A novel algorithm, improved multi-step backward cloud transformation with sampling replacement (IMBCT-SR), is developed for converting dataset-type indicators into cloud models. We also introduce a new similarity measure, the Cloud Bhattacharyya Distance (CBD), which shows superior discrimination ability compared to traditional distances. Using the coefficient of variation (CV) based on CBD, we objectively determine criteria weights. A cloud-based TOPSIS approach is then applied to rank alternative LSPs, with all variables modeled using NCMs to ensure consistent uncertainty representation. An application case and comparative experiments demonstrate that HD-CBDTOPSIS is an effective, flexible, and robust tool for evaluating cross-border LSPs under uncertain and multi-dimensional conditions. Full article

Despite advancements in divergence and distance measures across fuzzy set extensions, the development of such measures for Globular T-Spherical Fuzzy Sets (G-TSFSs) remains significantly unexplored. Existing approaches often fall short in capturing the rich semantics and high-dimensional uncertainty that G-TSFSs represent, limiting their utility in complex decision environments. This study is motivated by the need to fill this critical gap and advance decision science through more expressive and structurally aligned tools. This paper introduces a suite of novel divergence measures (Div-Ms) specifically formulated for G-TSFSs, a powerful tool for capturing uncertainty in multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) under complex conditions. These Div-Ms serve as the foundation for developing new distance measures (Dis-Ms) and similarity measures (SMs), where both Dis-Ms and SMs are symmetry-based and their essential mathematical properties and supporting theorems are rigorously established. Leveraging these constructs, we propose a robust G-TSF-TOPSIS framework and apply it to a real-world problem, selecting optimal solar energy systems (SESs) for a university context. The model integrates expert evaluations, assuming equal importance due to their pivotal and complementary roles. A sensitivity analysis over the tunable parameter (ranging from 4.0 to 5.0 with an increment of 0.2) confirms the robustness and stability of the decision outcomes, with no changes observed in the final rankings. Comparative analysis with existing models shows superiority and soundness of the proposed methods. These results underscore the practical significance and theoretical soundness of the proposed approach. The study concludes by acknowledging its limitations and suggesting directions for future research, particularly in exploring adaptive expert weighting strategies for broader applicability. Full article

Supplier selection in the shipbuilding industry is a typical multicriteria group decision-making (MCGDM) problem, often characterized by significant uncertainty and fuzziness. To address this issue effectively, this paper proposes a novel integrated approach for supplier selection in shipbuilding enterprises by combining intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs) with the weighted aggregated sum product assessment (WASPAS) method. The proposed method utilizes IFS operators alongside an innovative process for evaluating indicator weights. Initially, an intuitionistic fuzzy number approach is employed to obtain indicator data, which effectively captures the uncertainty of linguistic variables and ensures accurate reflection of real-world conditions. Subsequently, the indicator weights are evaluated by integrating subjective weights, derived through the best–worst method, with objective weights, calculated using an entropy-based approach, resulting in more balanced and realistic weight assignments. Subsequently, the WASPAS method is used to prioritize alternative suppliers, and a shipbuilding enterprise in Shanghai is taken as an example to verify the effectiveness of the model. In addition, to evaluate the stability of the proposed method, sensitivity analyses were performed for varying attribute values. The results demonstrate that the combination of subjective and objective weights enhances the stability of the method under varying attribute weights. Finally, a comparison with various existing methods based on intuitionistic fuzzy information proves that the proposed method exhibits certain advantages in solving the MCGDM problem under uncertain environments. Full article

Financial Risk Management (FRM) is crucial for organizations navigating complex and volatile economic conditions, as it aids in identifying and mitigating potential losses. Conventional FRM approaches are inadequate because they do not incorporate vagueness and variability in financial data. To overcome these challenges, this research presents interval-valued picture fuzzy measurement alternatives and rankings according to the Compromise Solution (IVPF-MARCOS) method. The IVPF-MARCOS method ranks investment strategies under uncertainty by assessing ten distinct investment options across seven key factors, including market risk and return on investment. It evidences its usefulness in enhancing decision-making, increasing accuracy in FRM, and developing Multi-Criteria Group Decision-Making (MCGDM) methodologies involving aggregation operators that are symmetric in nature. Consequently, this research establishes a compelling need to adopt improved fuzzy techniques in formulating the FRM to achieve more robust financial strategies. Full article

The symmetrical linear Diophantine fuzzy Hamacher aggregation operators play a fundamental role in many decision-making applications. The selection of a cyber security system is of paramount importance for maintaining digital assets. It necessitates a comprehensive review of threat landscapes, vulnerability assessments, and the specific needs of the organization in order to ensure the implementation of effective security measures. Smart grid (SG) technology uses modern communication and monitoring technologies to enhance the management and regulation of electricity production and transmission. However, greater dependence on technology and connection creates new vulnerabilities, exposing SG communication networks to large-scale attacks. Unlike previous surveys, which often give broad overviews of SG design, our research goes a step further, giving a full architectural layout that includes major SG components and communication linkages. This in-depth review improves comprehension of possible cyber threats and allows SGs to analyze cyber risks more systematically. To determine the best cybersecurity strategies, this study introduces a multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) approach using the linear Diophantine fuzzy Hamacher prioritized aggregation operator (LDFHPAO). In real-world applications, aggregation operators (AOs) are essential for information fusion. This research presents innovative prioritized AOs designed to address MCGDM problems in uncertain environments. We developed the LDF Hamacher prioritized weighted average (LDFHPWA) and LDF Hamacher prioritized weighted geometric (LDFHPWG) operators, which address the shortcomings of traditional operators and provide a more robust modeling approach for MCGDM challenges. This study also outlines key characteristics of these new prioritized AOs. An MCGDM approach incorporating these operators is proposed and demonstrated to be effective through an example that compares and selects the optimal cybersecurity. Full article

Decision makers (DMs) are often viewed as autonomous in the majority of multicriteria group decision making (MCGDM) situations, and their psychological behaviors are seldom taken into account. Once more, we are unable to prevent both positive and negative flows of varying alternative preferences due to the nature of attributes or criteria in complicated decision-making problems. However, DMs’ perspectives are likely to affect one another in complicated MCGDM issues, and they frequently use subjective limited rationality while making decisions. The multicriteria quantum decision theory-based group decision making integrating the TODIM-PROMETHEE II strategy under linguistic Z-numbers (LZNs) is designed to overcome the aforementioned problems. In our established technique, the PROMETHEE II controls the positive and negative flows of distinct alternative preferences, the TODIM method manages the experts’ personal regrets over a criterion, and the quantum probability theory (QPT) addresses human cognition and behavior. Because LZNs can convey linguistic judgment and trustworthiness, we provide expert LZNs for their viewpoints in this work. We determine the criterion weights for each expert after first obtaining their respective expert weights. Second, to represent the limited rational behaviors of the DMs, the TODIM-PROMETHEE II approach is introduced. It is employed to determine each alternative’s dominance in both positive and negative flows. Third, a framework for quantum possibilistic aggregation is developed to investigate the effects of interference between the views of DMs. The views of DMs are seen in this procedure as synchronously occurring wave functions that affect the overall outcome by interfering with one another. The model’s efficacy is then assessed by a selection of renewable energy case studies, sensitive analysis, comparative analysis, and debate. Full article

To improve the accuracy of choosing restoration materials for repairing ancient Chinese buildings and to mitigate the risk of decision-making, this paper establishes a novel selection model of compositions and proportions of additive lime mortars for the restoration of ancient Chinese buildings. The selection process is influenced by multi-criteria and determined by a group of experts through comprehensive judgment. Thus, it is a multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) problem. Firstly, considering subjective and objective criteria simultaneously, establish a selection index system for compositions and proportions of additive lime mortars in the restoration of ancient Chinese buildings. Secondly, applying a neutrosophic set to characterize experts’ evaluation information and quantify the evaluation information. Thirdly, the best–worst method (BWM) is implemented to obtain criteria weights, and the entropy weight method is utilized to obtain index weights. Finally, obtaining the priority of each alternative solution by using the TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) ranking technique. The practicality of the proposed model was demonstrated through a specific case of the selection of repair materials for a decorative window in one ancient Chinese building. The comparative analysis was carried out to verify the reliability and validity of the model. Full article

The fractional orthotriple fuzzy set (FOFS) model is a recently created extension of fuzzy sets (FS) for coping with ambiguity in DM. The purpose of this study is to define new exponential and Einstein exponential operational (EO) laws for fractional orthotriple fuzzy sets and the aggregation procedures that accompany them. We present the operational laws for exponential and Einstein exponential FOFSs which have crisp numbers as base values and fractional orthotriple fuzzy numbers as exponents (weights). The proposed operations’ qualities and characteristics are then explored. Based on the defined operation laws regulations, various new FOFS aggregation operators, named as fractional orthotriple fuzzy weighted exponential averaging (FOFWEA), fractional orthotriple fuzzy ordered weighted exponential averaging (FOFOWEA), fractional orthotriple fuzzy hybrid weighted averaging (FOFHWEA), fractional orthotriple fuzzy Einstein weighted exponential averaging (FOFEWEA), fractional orthotriple fuzzy Einstein ordered weighted exponential averaging (FOFEOWEA), and fractional orthotriple fuzzy Einstein hybrid weighted exponential averaging (FOFEHWEA) operators are presented. A decision-making algorithm based on the newly defined aggregation operators is proposed and applied to a multicriteria group decision-making (MCGDM) problem related to bank security. Finally, we compare our proposed method with other existing methods. Full article

This study introduces a novel multi-criteria group evaluation approach grounded in the theory of basic uncertain information (BUI) to facilitate the selection of green recycling suppliers for shared electric bikes. Firstly, a comprehensive index system of green recycling suppliers is established, encompassing recycling capacity, environmental sustainability, financial strength, maintenance capabilities, and policy support, to provide a solid foundation for the scientific selection process. Secondly, the basic uncertain information generalized power weighted average (BUIGPWA) operator is proposed to aggregate group evaluation information with BUI pairs, and some related properties are investigated. Furthermore, the basic uncertain information-based best–middle–worst TOPSIS (BUI-BMW-TOPSIS) model incorporating the best, middle, and worst reference points to enhance decision-making accuracy is proposed. Ultimately, by integrating the BUIGPWA operator for group information aggregation with the BUI-BMW-TOPSIS model to handle multi-criteria decision information, a novel multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) method is constructed to evaluate green recycling suppliers for shared electric bikes. Case analyses and comparative analyses demonstrate that compared with the BUIWA operator, the BUIGPWA operator yields more reliable results because of its consideration of the degree of support among decision-makers. Furthermore, in contrast to the traditional TOPSIS method, the BUI-BMW-TOPSIS model incorporates the credibility of information provided by decision-makers, leading to more trustworthy outcomes. Notably, variations in attribute weights significantly impact the decision-making results. In summary, our methods excel in handling uncertain information and complex multi-criteria group decisions, boosting scientific rigor and reliability, and supporting optimization and sustainability of shared electric bike green recycling suppliers. Full article

The continuous revolution of new energy technologies and the introduction of subsidy policies have promoted green consumers’ willingness to purchase new energy vehicles and automotive online service platforms have disclosed vehicle reputation and consumer satisfaction ratings information. However, due to issues such as uncertain data quality, large data volumes, and the emergence of positive reviews, the cost for potential car buyers to acquire useful decision-making knowledge has increased. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a scientific decision-making method that leverages the advantages of large-scale consumer satisfaction ratings to support potential car buyers in efficiently acquiring credible decision-making knowledge. In this context, the Bonferroni mean (BM) is a prominent operator for aggregating associated attribute information, while basic uncertain linguistic information (BULI) represents both information and its credibility in an integrated manner. This study proposes an embedded-criteria association learning BM operator tailored to large-scale consumer satisfaction ratings-driven scenarios and extends it to the BULI environment to address online ratings aggregation problems. Firstly, to overcome the limitations of BM with weighted interaction (WIBM) when dealing with independent criteria, we introduce an adjusted WIBM operator and extend it to the BULI environment as the BULIWIBM operator. We discuss fundamental properties such as idempotence, monotonicity, boundedness, and degeneracy. Secondly, addressing the constraints on interaction coefficients in BM due to subjective settings, we leverage expert knowledge to explore potential temporal characteristics hidden within large-scale consumer satisfaction ratings and develop a method for learning criteria and interaction coefficients. Finally, we propose a conversion method between user credibility-based ratings and BULI. By combining this method with the proposed adjusted BM operator, we construct a multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) approach for product ranking driven by large-scale consumer satisfaction ratings. The effectiveness and scientific rigor of our proposed methods are demonstrated through solving a new energy vehicle selection problem on an online service platform and conducting comparative analysis. The case analysis and comparative analysis results demonstrate that the interaction coefficients, derived from expert knowledge and 42,520 user ratings, respectively, fell within the ranges of [0.2391, 0.7857] and [0.6546, 1.0]. The comprehensive interaction coefficient lay within the range of [0.4674, 0.7965], effectively mitigating any potential biases caused by subjective or objective factors. In comparison to online service platforms, our approach excels in distinguishing between alternative vehicles and significantly impacts their ranking based on credibility considerations. Full article

In order to further investigate the level of online medical services in China and improve the medical experience of patients, this study aims to establish an online review-driven picture fuzzy multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) approach for the online medical service evaluation of doctors. First, based on the Aczel–Alsina t-norm and t-conorm, the normal picture fuzzy Aczel–Alsina operations involving a variable parameter are defined to make the corresponding operations more flexible than other operations. Second, two picture fuzzy Aczel–Alsina aggregation operators are developed, and the corresponding properties are discussed as well. Third, combined with the online review information of China’s medical platform Haodaifu, the online review-driven evaluation attributes and their corresponding weights are obtained, which can make the evaluation model more objective. Fourth, an extended normal picture fuzzy complex proportional assessment (COPRAS) decision-making method for the service quality evaluation of online medical services is proposed. Finally, an empirical example is presented to verify the feasibility and validity of the proposed method. A sensitivity analysis and a comparison analysis are also conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness and flexibility of the proposed approach. Full article

Optimized production scheduling can greatly improve efficiency and reduce waste in the steel manufacturing industry. With the increasing demands on the economy, the environment, and society, more and more factors need to be considered in the production scheduling process. Currently, only a few methods are developed for the comprehensive evaluation and prioritization of scheduling schemes. This paper proposes a novel MCGDM (multi-criteria group decision making) method for the ranking and selection of production scheduling schemes. First, a novel indicator system involving both qualitative and quantitative indicators is put forward. Diverse statistical methods and evaluation functions are proposed for the evaluation of quantitative indicators. The evaluation method of qualitative indicators is proposed based on heterogeneous data, cloud model theory, and group decision-making techniques. Then, a novel Group AHP model is proposed to determine the weights of all evaluation indicators. Finally, a novel cloud-model-enhanced TOPSIS (technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution) method is proposed to rank alternative production scheduling schemes. A practical example is presented to show the implementation details and demonstrate the feasibility of our proposed method. The results and comparative analysis indicate that our hybrid MCGDM method is more reasonable, flexible, practical, and effective in evaluating and ranking production scheduling schemes in an uncertain environment. Full article