A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach to Workforce Optimization in Public Sector Organizations

Authors

  • Khadijeh Ghaziani * Department of Basic Sciences, Ayandegan University, Tonekabon, Iran. https://orcid.org/0009-0000-8721-3233
  • Mahmoud Esfandiari Department of Business Management, Ayandegan University, Tonekabon, Iran.

https://doi.org/10.48314/anowa.v2i1.66

Abstract

This study aims to propose strategies for optimizing the workforce in governmental organizations through a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) approach, applied to the Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs of Mazandaran Province. The research employs a mixed-methods methodology, including a systematic literature review, a three-round Delphi process with 15 experts, the BWM, and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). The Delphi results identified 41 components across five dimensions: Structural, skill-based, technological, behavioral, and economic. The BWM ranked the skill-based dimension as the most significant, with a weight of 36.2%. The TOPSIS method identified three top-priority strategies: continuous training, talent management, and succession planning. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the model. The novelty of this research lies in the development of a hybrid model integrating the Delphi method, the Best–Worst Method, and TOPSIS, applied for the first time within the Foundation of Martyrs. This model enhances decision-making processes by transitioning from experience-based to scientifically grounded approaches. Furthermore, it addresses a knowledge gap in integrated workforce planning in the public sector and, by prioritizing competency-based approaches, increases productivity by 25% to 35%. It is recommended that the organization consider establishing a competency development center, implementing job rotation, and deploying an intelligent dashboard system. The proposed model is suggested as a generalizable framework for veterans’ institutions and other governmental organizations.

Keywords:

Workforce optimization, Multi-criteria decision-making, Delphi method, Best–worst method, TOPSIS

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Published

2026-03-18

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 1 (2026): Annals of Optimization With Applications (ANOWA)

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Ghaziani, K. ., & Esfandiari, M. . (2026). A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach to Workforce Optimization in Public Sector Organizations. Annals of Optimization With Applications, 2(1), 48-74. https://doi.org/10.48314/anowa.v2i1.66