Instructor: Prof. Elaine Chew

This course is an introduction to the principles and practice of Operations Research, and its role in human decision making. In particular, the course focuses on mathematical programming techniques such as linear programming (the Simplex Method, concepts of duality and sensitivity analysis), network optimization (including transportation and assignment problems) and, if time permits, nonlinear programming.

All course material is posted as open courseware: [ 2007 | 2006 | 2003 | 2002 ]

Definition (1962): According to the Operational Research Society of Great Britain (OPERATIONAL RESEARCH QUARTERLY, l3(3):282, l962), Operational Research is the attack of modern science on complex problems arising in the direction and management of large systems of men, machines, materials and money in industry, business, government and defense. Its distinctive approach is to develop a scientific model of the system, incorporating measurements of factors such as change and risk, with which to predict and compare the outcomes of alternative decisions, strategies or controls. The purpose is to help management determine its policy and actions scientifically. (IIASA) -- From the Web Dictionary of Cybernetics and Systems

Definition (1999): Operations research (OR) is the application of scientific methods to improve the effectiveness of operations, decisions and management. By means such as analyzing data, creating mathematical models and proposing innovative approaches, OR professionals develop scientifically based information that gives insight and guides decision-making. They also develop related software, systems, services and products. -- From 'Welcome to OR Territory' by Randy Robinson, ORMS Today, August 1999.

Value added (2004): Ironically, the strength and depth of our mathematical technologies has squeezed out the common-sense approach to problems and turned what was once O.R.'s greatest strength into what is widely perceived by those outside of the profession as a weakness or soft spot.
I personally think that 70 percent of the value added of operations research is the correct framing and formulation of the problem. The manipulation of equations to get an optimal or better solution is a relatively minor step after you've done the major steps of framing and formulation. -- Dick Larson, in an interview with Peter Horner, ORMS Today, December 2004.

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