A fuzzy multi-criteria decision making method for technology transfer strategy selection in biotechnology

This paper discusses the potential application of fuzzy set theory to technology transfer strategy selection in the area of biotechnology management. An algorithm for technology transfer strategy selection is proposed. The algorithm is based on the concepts of fuzzy set theory and the hierarchical structure analysis. The linguistic variables and fuzzy numbers are used to aggregate the decision makers’ subjective assessment about criteria weightings and appropriateness of alternative transfer strategies versus selection criteria to obtain the final scores called fuzzy appropriateness indices. The authors also propose a revised method for ranking fuzzy numbers with index of optimism which was proposed by Kim and Park. The present revised method is based on the stage of data input for computing the total index of optimism in multi-person decision making problem, instead of giving the index of optimism independently by a decision maker on the stage of information output. This new look at the index of optimism reflects the pooled risk-bearing attitude of multi-judge. The index of optimism is determined by the evaluation data conveyed by the decision makers at the beginning of the data input stage. Finally, the authors use the revised method to rank the fuzzy appropriateness indices for choosing the best technology transfer strategy.