Two-level efficiency evaluation of centralized star networks

The paper addresses the star network structures with centralized management and provides models for evaluating the performance of such structures. Despite the wide range of applications and importance, such structures have not been studied in data envelopment analysis before.

The Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) method is used for modeling the problem, and a two-level method for efficiency evaluation is proposed.

The proposed models are developed in both multiplicative and envelopment forms. The required formulas for efficiency decomposition and benchmarking are provided. Some results are proved by mathematical discussions and numerical experimentation.

Originality/Value: 

The star structure is seen in many real-world applications. A new method for modelling and evaluation of such structures is introduced and established. The proposed technique, discussions and analytical examinations have a significant contribution to the field of data envelopment analysis and its applications.