Operations Research

An introduction to Operations Research, an interdisciplinary branch of applied mathematics which is widely used for complex decision making. The course will develop mathematical models for optimization problems, emphasizing Linear Programming (LP), and including other basic models, such as Integer Programming (IP) and Network Flow. Solution of LP problems using the Simplex method will be studied, along with methods of other models. Students will solve problems using software packages. Additional topics may include LP duality and sensitivity analysis, IP methods such as Branch-and-Bound, transportation models, shortest-path and maximum flow problems, or critical-path analysis.Use of linear programming in minimization and maximization problems and the solution of such problems by computer. Topics will include convex sets, linear inequalities, the simplex method, duality, degeneracy procedures, and the transportation model.

033151