Centralized resource allocation based on efficiency analysis for step-by-step improvement paths

The existing centralized resource allocation models often assume that all of the DMUs are efficient after resource allocation. For the DMU with a very low efficiency score, it means the dramatic reduction of the resources, which can cause the organizational resistance. In addition, in reality, it is particularly difficult for the DMUs to achieve their target efficiencies in a single step, especially when they are far from the efficient frontier. Thus, gradual progress towards benchmarking targets is gaining importance. In this paper, we present a new approach for resource allocation based on efficiency analysis under a centralized decision-making environment. Through our approach, the central decision-maker can obtain a sequence of intermediate benchmark targets based on efficiency analysis, which provide a level-wise improvement path to direct the DMUs to reach their ultimate targets on the efficient frontier in an implementable and realistic manner. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the application procedure of the proposed approach.