TSUNSBM MODEL: A TARGETING MODEL FOR NETWORKS IN DATA ENVELOPMENT ANALYSIS

This study presents a target-setting model, named Target Setting Using Network SBM (TSUNSBM), for two-stage network structures in Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). A literature review of slacks-based network models (SBM-NDEA) revealed serveral issues that require further investigation, such as non-uniqueness of slacks and the projection of intermediate products. The proposed formulation is based on the envelopment model and adopts the free link configuration. It allows for deriving specific targets for each Decision-Making Unit (DMU), enabling improvement planning and the elimination of inefficiencies. This model was applied to a numerical example, showing that the designed DMUs achieve overall efficiency and efficiency in both stages. To determine efficiency scores, the Unique Stage Efficiencies Network SBM Model (UNSBM) was employed. The results indicate that the model is a valuable managerial tool for setting operational and strategic goals in organizations with network-based processes.