Operational research [EFASB351]
Learning outcomes
This course aims to train students in the modelling of management problems. It aims to help students identify typical operations research problems and associate proven methods with them. Students will also be expected to use analytical and critical thinking skills to interpret the results obtained. They should also be able to model and solve basic problems manually or interpret software output and then analyse it clearly and adequately.
Content
The following points are covered in this course: 1. Introduction to Operations Research 2. Continuous linear programming: its definitions, geometrical properties, use of the simplex algorithm, sensitivity analysis, transition to dual and economic interpretation; 3. Integer linear programming: definitions, properties, cuts and Branch-and-Bounds; 4. Introduction to heuristics.
Teaching methods
The course will be based on an intuitive approach with different examples, which will be compared with theoretical concepts. The course will consist of an oral lecture alternating the presentation of theoretical elements by the teacher with the students working on examples, exercises and applications. During the course, the Excel solver will be used to solve some problems and the students will have to be able to use it by themselves: they will have to be able to model the problem, analyse the Excel output and interpret the results.
Evaluations
The written examination of 3 to 4 hours (closed book) consists of solving exercises of a comparable level to those presented in the course and of applications requiring modelling and interpretation of the results provided by the computer.
Recommended readings
Course notes will be made available on the webcampus. Reference books : Teghem J. Operations research. Tome 1 - Méthodes d'optimisation. Ellipses, 2012. Taha H. Operations Research: An Introduction - 8th edition. Pearson Prentice Hall, 2007. Christian Prins and Marc Sevaux. Linear Programming with Excel: 55 optimization problems modeled step by step and solved with Excel. Editions Eyrolles, 2011.
Language of instruction
French / FrançaisLocation for course
NAMUROrganizer
Faculté des sciences économiques, sociales et de gestionRue de Bruxelles, 61
5000 NAMUR
