Vendors selection via a spreadsheet analytical hierarchy process

A methodology for selecting vendors is developed utilizing the analytical hierarchy process (AHP). The AHP is incorporated with the capabilities of a spreadsheet environment to develop a spreadsheet support system to aid in the selection process of vendors. The implementation of the AHP in this study is based on 8 criteria: 1. quality, 2. delivery, 3. performance history, 4. warranties and claim policies, 5. production facilities and capacity, 6. price, 7, technical capability, and 8. financial position. An illustrative example has been presented to show how the AHP is used to select, among 3 vendors, the one that best meets the 8 criteria collectively.