A comparison of multi-criteria methods for spare parts classification

Abstract

Spare parts classification is a fundamental step in spare parts inventory management. Through classification, the parts are grouped using a set of relevant criteria. Methodologies and methods for multicriteria decision making are used to support the classification of spare parts. In this paper, a comparative study between the use of the multi-criteria classification based on rules and the multi-criteria classification using the Analytic Hierarchy Process is presented, showing the advantages and disadvantages of each method. The study confirmed that the multi-criteria method based on rules is more easily applied in organizations. The multi-criteria method using Analytic Hierarchy Process required more calculations, turning the implementation of the method more complicated, especially for non-Analytic Hierarchy Process specialists.