Using an Interval Type-2 Fuzzy AROMAN Decision-Making Method to Improve the Sustainability of the Postal Network in Rural Areas

Abstract

One of the crucial pillars of each state’s development strategy relates to service provision in rural areas. An adequate scope of these services is a prerequisite for uniform regional progress. Postal operators play a key role in supporting these development policies, by providing postal, financial and transportation services to each citizen in a state, regardless of place of residence. The postal network represents one of the biggest logistics networks worldwide. However, since it is not financially justified to provide services to all citizens, even to those that live in the most remote areas, the question of how to optimize the postal network is always topical. This problem is very complex because the postal units’ existence in rural areas cannot be considered just from an economic standpoint; many other criteria should be considered. The model proposed in this paper can be considered a decision-making tool designed to support policymakers in planning the postal network. First, we identify the criteria that should be considered in decision-making by an extensive literature review. We then apply the FUCOM method to determine the importance of individual criteria. Finally, we propose an Interval Type-2 Fuzzy AROMAN approach to determine which postal unit should be reorganized.