Introduction

Eng. Shimaa Abouelenein

Definition of Operation Research
• "OR" typically stands for "Operations Research." Operations Research is an
interdisciplinary field that uses analytical methods to make better decisions and
solve complex problems. It applies mathematical modeling, statistical analysis,
optimization techniques, and other quantitative methods to optimize processes,
systems, and resources.
• Operations Research provides a quantitative and analytical framework for
decision-making, optimization, and process improvement, leading to enhanced
efficiency, cost savings, and better outcomes for organizations across various
industries.

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Benefits of Operations Research
1. Decision-making.
2. Optimization.
3. Resource allocation.
4. Risk analysis.
5. Supply chain management.
6. Process improvement.
7. Forecasting and planning.
8. Healthcare and logistics.

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Problem Formulation
• Problem formulation refers to the process of clearly defining and understanding a
problem or decision-making situation. It involves identifying the key elements,
objectives, constraints, and variables associated with the problem.
• Effective problem formulation is essential for developing suitable models,
algorithms, or approaches to solve the problem. It lays the foundation for applying
operations research techniques, mathematical modeling, and analytical methods
to find optimal solutions or make informed decisions.

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Problem Formulation cont.

Here are the key aspects of problem formulation:

1. Problem Identification: This step involves recognizing and defining the problem
or decision-making situation. It is important to clearly understand the nature of
the problem, its scope, and its impact on the organization or stakeholders.

2. Objective Setting: Defining the objectives is crucial in problem formulation. It

involves determining what needs to be achieved or optimized. Objectives could
be related to maximizing profits, minimizing costs, improving efficiency,
enhancing customer satisfaction, or any other relevant goal.

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Problem Formulation cont.

Here are the key aspects of problem formulation:

3. Scope and Constraints: Understanding the scope and constraints of the problem helps
in defining the boundaries within which the solution needs to be developed.
Constraints may include budget limitations, time constraints, resource availability, legal
or regulatory requirements, and other limitations that need to be considered.

4. Variables and Parameters: Identifying the key variables and parameters involved in the
problem is essential. These could be factors that directly affect the problem or decision,
such as quantities, prices, timeframes, capacities, or any other relevant variables.

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Problem Formulation cont.

Here are the key aspects of problem formulation:

5. Data Collection and Analysis: Gathering relevant data and analyzing it is an

integral part of problem formulation. This involves collecting necessary
information, performing data analysis, and understanding the relationships
between different variables.

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Problem Formulation cont.

So, we need to find: Notes:

• Exactly =
1. Decision variables
• At least >=
2. Objective function • At most <=
• Not less than >=
3. Constrains (non negativity) • Not more than <=
• Less than <
• More than >

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Problem 1

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Problem 1 cont.
• Solution:
A B
12 <= x
4 2
74 <= y
7 10
24 <= z
2 8

Objective: Constrains:
minimize Z = A + B 4A + 2B >= 12
7A + 10B >= 74
2A + 8B >=24
A, B >= 0

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Problem 2

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Problem 2 cont.
• Solution:
X1 X2
Objective: Constrains: 3$ 5$
minimize Z = 3X1 + 5X2 X1 <= 80
X2 >= 60
X1, X2 >= 0

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