Application of fuzzy Delphi method (FDM) and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to criteria weights for fashion design scheme evaluation

Purpose The purpose of this research is to determinate the criteria weight in a fashion design scheme evaluation system. Design/methodology/approach The first stage is to use the fuzzy Delphi method (FDM) by fashion design experts of academia and industries for fashion design evaluation criteria. The second stage is based on the use of a fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to find the criteria weight. Finally, an empirical example is used to illustrate the procedure of obtaining the criteria weights for the evaluation of a fashion design scheme. Findings The result shows that there are eight evaluation criteria to be obtained for fashion design scheme selection. The evaluation characteristic weights of theme and innovation score almost 90 percent (88.93 percent), the criteria weights of the first five, fashion forecast theme story, best‐seller modification, new idea and product position, score almost 80 percent (79.96 percent) and the criteria weights of the first two, fashion forecast and theme story, score almost 40 percent (39.93 percent) when selecting a design scheme in the fashion design process. Originality/value This paper proposes the vital characteristic and criteria for the selection of the fashion design scheme. In selecting fashion design scheme, this study uncovers that the marketing is less important than theme and innovation characteristics. Additionally, the results of this study, indicate the important five criteria, offered designer a set of useful indicators in preparing fashion design scheme and improving the quality of fashion design decision.