A hybrid model for supplier selection: integration of AHP and multi expression programming (MEP)

Supplier evaluation and selection is a complicated process which deals with conflicting attributes such as quality, cost. To mitigate the computational complexity, intelligent-based techniques have gained much popularity. But the main shortcoming of the existing models in this regard is to be a black box system. In this paper, we aim to combine analytical hierarchy process with multi-expression programming to both introduce a new evolutionary approach in the field of supplier evaluation and selection and cope with the earlier problem. To show the validity of the model, statistical test was carried out. The finding showed that the proposed model is accurate and acceptable for using in the evaluation process.