Supplier selection in gold mining using a fuzzy inference system [Selección de proveedores en la minería de oro con lógica difusa]

Abstract

This article aims to describe a supplier evaluation and selection methodology based on a fuzzy inference system (FIS) for the gold mining sector. Based on a literature review, a fuzzy system consisting of the characterization of the procurement process, variable input and output membership functions, fuzzy rules, methods of aggregation and defuzzification is developed, including weighting factors to generate fuzzy rules. The proposed FIS is modeled in Matlab® and validated in a gold mining company located in the mining district of Ataco-Payandé, Colombia. With the results it is found that FIS supports the decision-making process and increases the capabilities for the supplier evaluation and selection by using quantitative models, linguistic variables and fuzzy rules involving uncertainty and ambiguity. Thus, it contributes to the improvement of mining companies, where the purchasing process and supplier management are critical components of the mining logistics system. © 2016, Revista Venezolana de Gerencia. All rights reserved.