Prior-Ratio-Analysis procedure to improve data envelopment analysis for performance measurement

This paper proposes the use of a Prior-Ratio-Analysis procedure, analysing output/input ratio indicators, allowing the improvement in efficiency measurement by means of data envelopment analysis (DEA) methodology. This prior analysis is based on the existence of a relationship of individual ratio in the firms to DEA efficiency scores. Use of the proposed procedure allows (i) detection of efficient units whose efficiency could be overestimated and (ii) identification of certain inputs/outputs enhancing particular behaviours. Accordingly, the DEA efficiency analysis could be improved with a major understanding about the factors determining the unit efficiency, and with a measure as a true indicator for discriminating between units, and for ranking them.