Subcontractor selection and efficiency measurement in shipyards

Shipyards are industrial enterprises of strategic importance in the countries where they operate, engaging in activities such as shipbuilding, maintenance, and repair. Due to the large-scale nature of their projects, shipyards frequently rely on subcontractors to meet their labor demands. The accurate determination of evaluation criteria and the selection of the right subcontractor are crucial for shipyards. In the first part of this study, main and sub-criteria for subcontractor selection were established, benefiting from previous studies on the subject. Questionnaire forms based on these criteria were evaluated by experts working in shipyards located in the Altınova region of Yalova. The data obtained from these evaluations were analyzed using the "Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP)-Based Approach." The analysis determined the importance weights of the criteria for subcontractor selection. Subsequently, the TOPSIS method was employed to apply these criteria to the subcontractor selection process for a specific shipyard in the region, ultimately identifying the most suitable subcontractor for the shipyard. In the second part of the study, the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method was utilized to measure the efficiency changes of Turkish shipyards over the past seven years using statistical data. The analysis revealed that 2023 was the most efficient year, while 2020 recorded the lowest efficiency levels. This research provides a systematic approach to subcontractor selection, a critical strategic decision for shipyards, and offers insights into the efficiency dynamics of the industry, enabling shipyards to enhance their operational performance.