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a mathematical technique used in economics; finds the maximum or minimum of linear functions in many variables subject to constraints

a mathematical technique used in economics; finds the maximum or minimum of linear functions in many variables subject to constraints

A technique of operations research for solving certain kinds of problems involving many variables where a best value or set of best values is to be found. It is most likely to be feasible when the quantity to be optimized, sometimes called the objective function, can be stated as a mathematical expression in terms of the various activities within the system, and when this expression is simply proportional to the measure of the activities, i.e., is linear, and when all the restrictions are also linear. It is different from computer programming, although problems using linear programming techniques may be programmed on a computer.

Mathematical computer modeling simulation technique. Calculated the best solutions for allocating energy, machines, materials, money, personnel, space, time, as limited resources to achieve maximum profit or minimum cost. Applies only where every relationship is linear. Refer to linear relationship. Accommodate only specific cost functions. 'Mixed integer modeling' is used for problems involving more complex cost functions. Russian economist Leonid Kantorovich (1912-86) and US economist C. Koopmans (1910-86), developed this method based on the work of Russian mathematician Andrei Nikolaevich Kolmogorov (1903-87).