Business Optimization: Linear, Integer, and Network Models

Catalog description

This course develops a practical approach to optimization modeling for business decisions. Students learn to translate problems into decision variables, objectives, and constraints, then solve and interpret models using spreadsheet solvers. Coverage includes linear programming, blending and inventory models, network flow, scheduling with fixed and setup costs, integer and binary formulations, and goal programming for competing objectives. Emphasis is on model formulation, sensitivity and what-if analysis, and clear communication of results to decision makers. Ethical considerations focus on assumptions, fairness, and limits of optimization in real organizations.