Multi-criteria decision making towards selection of industrial robot

Abstract

Purpose – Robot selection is one of the critical decision-making tasks frequently performed by various industries in order to choose the best suited robot for specific industrial purposes. In recent marketplace, the number of robot manufacturers has increased remarkably offering a wide range of models and specifications; thus, robot selection has become indeed confusing as well as complicated task. Selection of an appropriate robot is a sensitive process; it may result massive letdown, if not chosen properly. Therefore, for unravel the selection problem; the purpose of this paper is to explore the preference ranking organization method for enrichment evaluation (PROMETHEE) II method. Design/methodology/approach – Apart from a large variety of robotic systems, existence of various multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) tools and techniques may create confusion to the decision makers’ in regards of application feasibility as well as superiority in performance to work under different decision-making situations. In this context, the PROMETHEE II method has been found as an efficient decision-making tool which provides complete ranking order of all available alternatives prudently, thus avoiding errors in decision making. Findings – In this context, the present paper highlights application potential of aforesaid PROMETHEE II method in relation to robot selection problem subjected to a set of quantitative (objective) evaluation data collected from the available literature resources. Advantages and disadvantages of PROMETHEE II method have also been reported in comparison to other existing MCDM approaches. Originality/value – The study bears significant managerial implications. Proper evaluation and selection of appropriate candidate robot would be helpful for the industries in order to improve product quality as well as to increase productivity. Proper utilization of resources could be ensured. Functioning would be accurate with reduced timespan. As a consequence, company can increase its profit margin in long run.