In this work, a non-parametric and deterministic approach based on multidirectional efficiency analysis (MEA) is presented. The proposed model involves MEA with other important mathematical techniques in data analysis, such as the calculation of the NC value for the analysis of groups with different levels of efficiency. This model allows us to examine the factors that influence the behavior of decision-making units in different contexts such as business efficiency, educational quality, energy efficiency, circular economy, among others. Particularly in this work, we show the results obtained in 1787 Portuguese companies in the materials manufacturing sector (manufacture of wood and paper; manufacture of rubber products, plastics and other non-metallic mineral products; manufacture of common metals and metallic products, except machinery and equipment) in an eight-year period (2006-2013) ...

Conventional efficiency evaluation systems present little diversity in the type of variables considered. This aspect generally leads to errors in the application of the models and in the corresponding interpretation of results. This study proposes a dynamic model to measure the efficiency of decision-making units, based on non-parametric Multidirectional Efficiency Analysis (MEA). The model presented here considers a complete structure, which includes intertemporal variables (desirable/undesirable intermediate inputs and outputs), discretionary/non-discretionary inputs; desirable/undesirable inputs and outputs. Dynamic score is defined first in a particular version and then in a more general version, considering two optimization problems. The directional contribution of each variable is examined, showing excess inputs and deficit outputs. In addition, a dynamic inefficiency index to meas...