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

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