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Operations Research Assignment

The document outlines definitions of operations research from various authors, highlighting key concepts such as scientific methods, decision-making, and optimization. It also discusses the historical development of operations research, noting its emergence during World War II and its evolution with technological advancements. Additionally, it lists models used in operations research, benefits and limitations, and assumptions underlying linear programming.

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6 views5 pages

Operations Research Assignment

The document outlines definitions of operations research from various authors, highlighting key concepts such as scientific methods, decision-making, and optimization. It also discusses the historical development of operations research, noting its emergence during World War II and its evolution with technological advancements. Additionally, it lists models used in operations research, benefits and limitations, and assumptions underlying linear programming.

Uploaded by

2kellykimani
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Operations research assignment

1.Search for 5 definitions of operating research according to 5 different authors and


identify the keywords to generate my own definition of Operations Research

Philip McCord Morse and George E. Kimball:


Definition: "Operations research is a scientific method of providing executive
departments with a quantitative basis for decisions regarding the operations under their
control."
Keywords: Scientific method, quantitative basis, decisions, operations.

C. West Churchman, Russell L. Ackoff, and E. Leonard Arnoff:


Definition: "Operations research is the application of scientific methods, techniques, and
tools to problems involving the operations of a system so as to provide those in control
of the system with optimum solutions to the problems."
Keywords: Scientific methods, techniques, tools, system operations, optimum solutions.

H. A. Taha:
Definition: "Operations research is the art of giving bad answers to problems which
otherwise have worse answers."
Keywords: Art, bad answers, worse answers, problem-solving.

Thomas L. Saaty:
Definition: "Operations research is the science of decision-making, concerned with
providing a rational basis for making decisions in the face of uncertainty."
Keywords: Science, decision-making, rational basis, uncertainty.
Frederick S. Hillier and Gerald J. Lieberman:
Definition: "Operations research is the discipline of applying advanced analytical
methods to help make better decisions."
Keywords: Discipline, advanced analytical methods, better decisions.

2. Write an essay of not more than 250 words on historical perspectives on the
development of operations research as a field of study
The essay should have a title and an impressive thesis statement

The Evolution of Operations Research: A Historical Perspective

The development of operations research as a field of study has been shaped by


historical events, technological advancements, and interdisciplinary collaboration,
transforming it into a vital tool for decision-making and optimization in various sectors.
Operations research (O.R.) emerged during World War II to optimize resource allocation
and solve complex problems. It expanded into manufacturing, transportation, and
telecommunications industries in the 1950s and 1960s, with the development of linear
programming and the simplex algorithm by George Dantzig. The advent of computers in
the latter half of the 20th century further propelled O.R., enabling the processing of vast
amounts of data and the implementation of sophisticated algorithms in finance,
healthcare, and environmental management. Today, O.R. continues to evolve, driven by
advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics. Its
interdisciplinary nature combines mathematics, engineering, and social sciences, making
it relevant in contemporary challenges.
3. List at least 5 models used in operations research

Linear programming - A mathematical method to determine the best outcome in a


model whose requirements are represented by linear relationships.
Integer programming - Similar to linear programming but with the added constraint that
some or all variables must take integer values
Network models - Models that represent problems as networks, with nodes and arcs, to
optimize the flow of resources.
Queuing Theory - A mathematical study of waiting lines or queues, used to predict
queue lengths and waiting times.
Simulation models - Models that mimic the operation of real-world processes or
systems over time, often using computer programs.

4. Highlight 4 benefits and 2 limitations of operations research


Benefits of Operations Research
1. Optimized Decision-Making: O.R. provides a structured and analytical approach to
decision-making, helping organizations choose the best course of action to achieve their
objectives efficiently.
2. Resource Efficiency: By using mathematical models and algorithms, O.R. helps in the
optimal allocation and utilization of resources, reducing waste and lowering costs.
3. Improved Productivity: O.R. techniques can streamline processes, enhance workflow,
and increase overall productivity by identifying bottlenecks and suggesting
improvements.
4. Risk Management: O.R. allows organizations to assess and mitigate risks by analyzing
various scenarios and outcomes, leading to more robust and resilient strategies.

Limitations of Operations Research


1. Complexity and Simplification: Real-world problems are often complex and
multifaceted. O.R. models may oversimplify these problems, potentially leading to
solutions that do not fully address all aspects of the issue.
2. Data Dependency: The accuracy and effectiveness of O.R. models heavily depend on
the quality and availability of data. Inaccurate or incomplete data can lead to
suboptimal or erroneous solutions.

5. list and briefly explain 5 assumptions that underly linear programming


a)Linearity:
The objective function and all constraints must be linear. This means that the
relationships are proportional and additive. Nonlinear relationships cannot be
directly modeled using linear programming. This assumption simplifies the model
but may not accurately represent real-world scenarios where relationships are often
nonlinear.
b) Certainty:
All parameters (coefficients in the objective function and constraints) are known and
constant. There is no uncertainty in the values of these parameters. In reality, many
parameters are subject to change and uncertainty, which can limit the applicability of LP
in dynamic environments.
c) Proportionality
The contribution of each decision variable to the objective function and constraints is
proportional to its value. This means that doubling the value of a variable will double its
contribution. This assumption may not hold if there are economies or diseconomies of
scale.
d)Additivity:
The total value of the objective function and the total usage of resources are the sums
of the individual contributions of each variable. There are no interactions between
variables. This assumption ignores any synergistic or antagonistic effects between
variables, which can be significant in some real-world problems.
e) Divisibility:
Decision variables can take on any fractional value within their allowed range. This
means that solutions can include non-integer values. In many practical situations,
variables must be integers (e.g., number of items produced), which requires the use of
integer programming rather than linear programming.

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