Computation of optimal mean for a larger-the-better type quality characteristic using goal programming

This paper solves the problem of finding the optimal mean of a larger-the-better type quality characteristic, using a goal programming approach. The goals are to maximize the process mean, and to minimize the manufacturing cost, proportion of rejects and the expected loss. Goal programming removes the necessity of expressing the relevant criteria to the problem in a single unit, thus ameliorating the complexity of the solution method. Two approaches, namely non-preemptive goal programming and preemptive goal programming are used in the formulation. Sample problems are solved with both these approaches.