Hybrid fuzzy inference system for evaluating lean product development practice

In this study, a hybrid model which is based on fuzzy inference system (FIS) and fuzzy technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (FTOPSIS) is proposed for the holistic evaluation, integration and implementation of the lean practice in the product development process using an automotive related company as the case company. The main contribution of the study includes; the evaluation of the effects of product quality, product value, development time and development cost on the lean practice and strategy in the product development environment which the authors believe is the first in this area. The development of a hybrid model which is based on FIS and FTOPSIS, for the holistic evaluation of lean practices in the product development process which also provide a framework for the implementation of lean practices when quality, product value, development time and cost are considered. The used of two distance methods for FTOPSIS model analysis, which effectively eliminates the bias of using a single distance method and finally the introduction of a new reflection defuzzification integration formula which serves as an interface between the FIS and FTOPSIS methods. To prove the effectiveness of the proposed hybrid model, it has been compared with a similar computational model in literature.