A heuristic genetic algorithm for subcontractor selection in a global manufacturing environment

In this paper, we present an investigation of how partner selection problem s may be optimized by the use of a precedence network of subprojects. At th e start, the problem is described by a model with the subscript-type of var iables and nonanalytical objective function. It cannot be solved by general mathematical programming methods. By using the fuzzy rule quantification m ethod, a fuzzy logic based decision making approach for the project schedul ing is proposed. We then develop a fuzzy decision embedded heuristic geneti c algorithm (GA/FD) to find the solution for partner selection. The approac h was demonstrated by the use of an experimental example drawn from a coal fire power station construction project. The results show us that the sugge sted approach is possible to quickly achieve optimal solution for large siz e problems.