Novel models for obtaining the closest weak and strong efficient projections in data envelopment analysis

Abstract

Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is a nonparametric method for measuring the relative efficiency and performance of Decision Making Units (DMUs). Traditionally, there are two issues regarding the DEA simultaneously i.e., the identification of a reference point on the efficient boundary of the production possibility set (PPS) and the use of some measures of distance from the unit under assessment to the efficient frontier. Due to its importance, in this paper, two alternative target setting models were developed to allow for low efficient DMUs find the easiest way to improve its efficiency and reach to the efficient boundary. One seeks the closest weak efficient projection and the other suggests the most appropriate direction towards the strong efficient frontier surface. Both of these models provides the closest projection in one stage. Finally, a proposed problem is empirically checked by using a recent data related to 30 European airports.