Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing 23 (2007) 126–137
Multiple-attribute decision making methods
for plant layout design problem
Taho Yang_, Chih-Ching Hung
Institute of Manufacturing Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan, ROC
Received 19 August 2005; received in revised form 8 December 2005; accepted 20 December 2005
Abstract
The layout design problem is a strategic issue and has a significant impact on the efficiency of a manufacturing system. Much of the
existing layout design literature that uses a surrogate function for flow distance or for simplified objectives may be entrapped into local
optimum; and subsequently lead to a poor layout design due to the multiple-attribute decision making (MADM) nature of a layout
design decision. The present study explores the use of MADM approaches in solving a layout design problem. The proposed
methodology is illustrated through a practical application from an IC packaging company. Two methods are proposed in solving the
case study problem: Technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) and fuzzy TOPSIS. Empirical results showed
that the proposed methods are viable approaches in solving a layout design problem. TOPSIS is a viable approach for the case study
problem and is suitable for precise value performance ratings. When the performance ratings are vague and imprecise, the fuzzy TOPSIS
is a preferred solution method.
r 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Keywords: Plant layout; Fuzzy set theory; Multiple-attribute decision making; TOPSIS