Introduction:Model Solution, Implementation of Results

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Operations Research (MTH601)

An OR model is an abstract representation of an existing problem situation. It can be in

the form of a graph or chart, but mostly, an OR model consists of a set of mathematical

relationship. In OR terminology, these are called objective function and constraints.

Model Solution

Once models are constructed, they are solved using the OR techniques, presented in the

next section. Actually it is difficult to separate model construction and solution in most cases,

since OR technique usually applies to a specific type of model. Thus, the model type and

solution method are both part of the OR technique.

Implementation of Results

The results of an OR technique are information which helps in making a decision. The

beauty of OR process lies in obtaining, the results which are implement able or we call it a

feasible whole exercise will go waste.

OR is an On-going Process

Once the five steps described above are completed, it does not necessarily mean that OR

process is completed. The model results and the decisions based on the results provide feedback

to the original model. The original OR model can be modified to test different conditions and

decisions that might occur in the future. The results may indicate that a different problem exists

that had not been thought of previously, thus the original model is altered or reconstructed. As

such, the OR process is continuous rather than simply consisting of one solution to one problem.

Operations Research (MTH601)

Operations Research Techniques:

Two of the five steps of OR process, model construction and solution, encompass the

actual use of OR techniques. These techniques can be loosely classified into five categories.

Linear mathematical programming technique consist of first, identifying problem as

being solvable by linear programming; second formulation of unturned problem and then finding

the solution by using established mathematical techniques. It derives its name from the fact that

the functional relationship in the mathematical model are linear and the solution techniques

consists of a predetermined mathematical steps i.e. program.

Probabilistic techniques covers those problem in which all parameters are not known with

certainty. The solution results are assumed to be known with uncertainty, with probability that

other solution might exist.

Inventory techniques are specifically designed for the analysis of inventory problem

frequently encountered by the business firms. This particular business function is singled out for

attention, since it typically represents a significant area of cost for almost every business. This

category is divided into probabilistic and deterministic techniques.

Operations Research (MTH601)

Network techniques consist of models that are represented by diagrams rather than

strictly mathematical relationship i.e. pictorial representation of the system under consideration.

These models can represent either probabilistic or deterministic systems.

Other techniques consist of all the remaining techniques, which do not come under the

four heads mentioned above. For example, Dynamic programming employs a different modeling

and solution logic than linear programming. In non-linear programming either the objective

function or the constraints or both can be non-linear functions, which would require altogether

different solution technique.

USES OF OPERATIONS RESEARCH

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