Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is a linear programming based technique for measuring the relative performance of organisational units where the presence of multiple inputs and outputs makes comparisons difficult. This tutorial paper introduces the technique and uses an example to show how relative efficiencies can be determined and targets for inefficient units set. The paper also considers a number of practical issues of concern in applying the technique.

This tutorial has been written by R. G. Dyson, E. Thanassoulis and A. Boussofiane and adapted from the 'Data Envelopment Analysis' in Tutorial Papers in Operational Research, L.C.Hendry and R.W.Eglese eds. Operational Research Society, 1990.
Reproduced by permission of the Operational Research Society, UK.
No part of this tutorial may be reproduced in any form without the express permission of the authors and the Operational Research Society, UK.