Hybrid Management Strategy for Outsourcing Electromechanical Maintenance and Selecting Contractors in Taipei MRT

Abstract

Taipei mass rapid transit (MRT), operational since 1996, serves up to two million passengers daily. Equipment malfunctions pose a safety risk, making the dual goals of cost reduction and safety a significant challenge. Recently, outsourcing non-core technical tasks has emerged as an effective cost-control strategy, allowing resource allocation to employee salaries and operational efficiency. This study uses the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to prioritize outsourcing for electromechanical equipment. It incorporates analysis from the outsourcing literature, historical data, and ISO documents from Taipei MRT. The research included interviews and surveys with seven senior managers, using software to analyze the outsourcing priorities of four key systems: electrical and fire safety, environmental air conditioning, escalators and elevators, and power supply. It suggests prioritizing environmental air conditioning, followed by power supply systems, escalators and elevators, and electrical and fire safety systems. Additionally, this study employed the FAHP and the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) for the rigorous evaluation and monitoring of vendor selection to ensure quality service and effective contract execution. By comparing technical expertise, problem-solving capabilities, certifications, response times, and contractual performance, this study identified the most suitable vendors. It concludes with recommendations for Taipei MRT to enhance maintenance quality and reduce costs.