An integrated stochastic-fuzzy modeling approach for supply chain leanness evaluation

The basic goal of this paper is to develop an integrated stochastic-fuzzy model to evaluate supply chain leanness of small and medium enterprises in the automotive industry. In spite of the vast amount of studies on lean concepts and related tools and techniques, the evaluation of lean situation (leanness) is less investigated. In order to fill this gap, this research was carried out to systematically quantify the leanness of a supply chain with regard to stochastic and fuzzy uncertainties in performance measures. Particularly, four performance categories (quality, cost, delivery and reliability, and flexibility) along with 28 related measures were selected as surrogates for leanness. The probability function of the total leanness was identified and different leanness situations were consequently predicted. A total leanness index was also provided and connected to fuzzy sets (linguistic terms) to evaluate the current leanness level. Some management actions were then suggested based on different values of leanness level.