Z-Number Best-Worst Method
Z-BWM (Z-Number Best-Worst Method) is a weighting multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) method introduced by Aboutorab, Saberi, Asadabadi, Hussain, Chang (UTS Sydney, Australia) in 2018. It turns a decision matrix of alternatives scored on multiple criteria into a structured, reproducible result.
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Method map
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When to use it
Z-BWM outputs criterion importance weights (sum=1). Higher weight = more important. Pair with any alternative-ranking method (TOPSIS, MARCOS, WASPAS) that consumes a weight vector. Check CR ≤ 0.10 before trusting weights.
Strengths & limitations
- Follows a transparent, reproducible computational procedure that can be audited step by step.
- Handles multiple criteria of differing scales and units within a single decision matrix.
- Assumes full compensation — a strong score on one criterion can offset a weak score on another.
Sources
- Aboutorab, H., Saberi, M., Asadabadi, M.R., Hussain, O., Chang, E. (2018). ZBWM: The Z-number extension of Best Worst Method and its application for supplier development. Expert Systems with Applications DOI: 10.1016/j.eswa.2018.04.015 ↗
How to cite this page
ScholarGate. (2026, June 2). Z-Number Best-Worst Method. ScholarGate. https://scholargate.app/en/decision-making/z-bwm
Which method?
Set this method beside its closest kin and read them side by side — the library lays the books on the table; the choice is yours.
- MARCOSDecision-making↔ compare
- TOPSISDecision-making↔ compare
- Z-COPRASDecision-making↔ compare
- Z-EDASDecision-making↔ compare
- Z-MARCOSDecision-making↔ compare
- Z-TOPSISDecision-making↔ compare
- Z-VIKORDecision-making↔ compare
- Z-WASPASDecision-making↔ compare