A Malmquist productivity index with the directional distance function and uncertain data

We present an integrated data envelopment analysis (DEA) and Malmquist productivity index (MPI) to evaluate the performance of decision making units (DMUs) by using a directional distance function with undesirable interval outputs. The MPI calculation is performed to compare the efficiency of the DMUs in distinct time periods. The uncertainty inherent in real-world problems is considered by using the best and worst-case scenarios, defining an interval for the MPI and reflecting the DMUs’ advancement or regress. The optimal solution of the robust model lies in the efficiency interval, i.e., it is always equal to or less than the optimal solution in the optimistic case and equal to or greater than the optimal solution in the pessimistic case. We also present a case study in the banking industry to demonstrate applicability and efficacy of the proposed integrated approach.