Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Framework for the Strategic Selection of Digital Manufacturing Machines
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65150/EP-gjetr/V1E4/2025-01Keywords:
Fab lab, Technological entrepreneurship, Developing country, AHP, Fuzzy AHP, TOPSISAbstract
Fab Labs and digital manufacturing equipment represent a transformative approach for enhancing manufacturing capabilities in low-income settings. However, the proliferation of alternative machines and rapid technological advancement create significant challenges for digital entrepreneurs. The selection of an appropriate machine is essential to achieve optimal results in digital manufacturing. This study develops a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) framework to strategically select digital manufacturing equipment, addressing key barriers of equipment selection and funding constraints in resource-limited environments. Through a structured methodology combining literature-based criteria identification, expert consultations, and hierarchical decision modeling, the proposed framework comprises three sequential steps: problem structuring, MCDM technique selection, and decision reporting. Our findings highlight critical equipment selection criteria, including accessibility and procurement efficiency, performance, power usage efficiency, and community impact. The MCDM framework enables informed procurement decisions and identifies strategies to cultivate a maker culture essential for community empowerment. By offering practical guidance for optimizing equipment procurement in Fab Labs, this research enhances operational capacity and fosters innovation and resilience in low-income settings, ultimately contributing to broader socio-economic benefits.
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