A combined fuzzy AHP-simulation approach to CAD software selection

Abstract

In this paper a combined approach where the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and simulation come together is presented to select the best computer-aided design (CAD) software out of the available options in the market. The fuzzy AHP is used due to the vagueness and uncertainty of the judgements of a decision maker(s) because the crisp pair-wise comparison in the conventional AHP seems to be insufficient and imprecise to capture the right judgements of the decision maker(s). In this study first the fuzzy AHP is used to reduce a possible number of alternatives for the CAD system to an acceptable level for further study simulation analysis. Secondly a simulation generator as an integrated part of the fuzzy AHP is used to try the remaining alternatives on the generated model of a real-life product organisation in which the final alternative will be used. The results of simulation experiments are obtained and then evaluated to reach to the ultimate CAD alternative.