Overall objectives:

O1 - To know the concept/ philosophy of building and optimizing simplified models of operational research problems which support decision making.
O2 - To study quantitative methods for obtaining solutions to the decision problems constructed.
O3 - To provide and develop skills in students in the analysis and evaluation of different decision alternatives face to specific problems.

Syllabus:

P1 - Introduction to linear programming (problem formulation, method of graphical resolution, properties).
P2 - Simplex method (optimality conditions, tabular form, geometric interpretation, analytical resolution, method of two-phases).
P3 - Duality in linear programming (economic interpretation, the dual method, sensitivity analysis and post-optimization).
P4 - Transportation and allocation problems (the transportation problem, analytical resolution, the allocation problem, the «hungarian» method).
P5 - Network problems (graphs, the shortest and the longest path problems, maximum flow problem).
P6 - Project management (CPS and PERT)

Literature/Sources:

F. S. Hiller, G. J. Lieberman , 1990 , Introduction to Operations Research , McGraw-Hill
L. V. Tavares, R. C. Oliveira, I. H. Themido, F. N. Correira , 1996 , Investigação Operacional , McGraw-Hill
M. S. Bazaraa, J. J. Jarvis, H. D. Sherali , 1990 , Linear Programming and Network Flows , John Wiley & Sons
W. L. Winston , 2004 , Operations research: Applications and algorithms , Thomson Brooks/Cole

Assesssment methods and criteria:

Classification Type: Quantitativa (0-20)

Evaluation Methodology:
Lectures, problem solving and discussion sessions and presentation problems. Some problem solving with appropriate software (Excel solver). Enhancing student self-study attitude and research with problem solving outside the classroom. Two written tests (50% of weight to each of them): evaluation of the acquired concepts upon all subject, as well as the appropriate methods to given problems. Practical work (optional: substitutes the 2nd written test): applying corresponding methods in solving a particular problem.