Fuzzy calculator – A tool for management needs

Abstract

Fuzzy logic and fuzzy system models have become popular tools in the field of management as they enable efficient handling of uncertainty. We present a tool based on the authors´ original approach focused on solving complex managerial problems affected by the vagueness or uncertainty caused by the human factor. For this purpose, we show the connection between the functioning principle of the tool and processes occurring in the human mind including a description of its structure as perceived by an external observer. This is followed by an overview of selected fragments of fuzzy propositional logic, the theory of fuzzy sets, and the conclusions derived from it. The main part consists of formulating an algebraic description of the computational process of multi-criteria evaluation of the considered alternative performed by a fuzzy system, which serves as the executive unit of a Fuzzy calculator. This is supplemented by a flowchart diagram illustrating the algorithm of its functioning. The Fuzzy calculator distinguishes itself from other fuzzy systems by standardizing all linguistic variables, regardless of the number of linguistic values, into a unified framework comprising three terms L, M, and H, which are represented using trapezoidal fuzzy numbers, ensuring precise mathematical characterization. During the transformation, the original linguistic terms are preserved by incorporating the positions of their support intervals, thereby maintaining the specificity of the input information. This approach establishes the Fuzzy calculator as a universal and highly adaptable tool, capable of addressing a wide range of practical managerial problems with improved consistency and control.