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Chapter 1: Methodology - Coggle Diagram
Chapter 1: Methodology
Origins:
Operational Research (OR) is a relatively new discipline, emerging in the UK just before WWII (1939).
It originated as research into using radar data for air defense during the war, with the term "operational research" coined to describe this new field.
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Modern Changes:
Today, OR teams are typically specialized in the field rather than multidisciplinary.
Analytics focuses on similar challenges, often dealing with large datasets
2 mines problem
The problem involves determining how many days per week two mines (Mine X and Mine Y) should be operated to fulfill the contract requirements of a smelting plant at the minimum cost.
Steps to Solve
- Define Decision Variables:
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Maximum working days per week:
x≤5, y≤5
Non-negativity constraints:
x≥0, y≥0
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Guessing solutions (e.g., "4 days for Mine X and 3 days for Mine Y") can give feasible but not necessarily optimal results.
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This is a typical linear programming problem that can be solved using optimization techniques like the Simplex Method or software tools like Excel Solver.
Discussion
Formulation Process:
Purpose: Helps think clearly and logically about the problem, even if no mathematics is applied.
Iterative Process: Revisiting and refining variables, constraints, and objectives is essential to ensure accuracy.
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Phases of an OR Project
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Define objectives, limitations, and requirements.
- Formulation as a Mathematical Model:
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Address the "data barrier" (e.g., lack of data or poor-quality data).
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Conduct sensitivity analysis ("what if" questions) to assess how changes in input data affect results.
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Provide detailed instructions, operating manuals, and training as needed.
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Methodological Issues
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Key Factors for Success:
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Awareness of constraints the client faces (e.g., departmental boundaries, feasibility of changes).
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Consultant’s Role:
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Understand the technical, social, and cultural contexts of the problem.
- Cost vs. Decision Quality
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Strategies:
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Explore feasible options and present trade-offs to the client.
(remains the best even if the problem chamges)
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