Vogel’s Approximation Method (VAM) follows a logical step-by-step procedure to obtain an initial basic feasible solution:
-
Find difference between the two unallocated least cost cells from each row and each column
→ This is the first step where penalties are calculated. -
Select largest difference of rows/columns
→ The row or column with the highest penalty is chosen next. -
Assign largest quantity as per rim requirements to the cell in the row/column with smallest cost
→ Allocation is made to the lowest-cost cell in the selected row/column. -
Eliminate the row/column that has been satisfied
→ Once supply or demand is fulfilled, that row or column is removed from further consideration. -
Check all rim requirement conditions are met
→ The process continues until all supply and demand requirements are satisfied.