In this book, Professor Roy Nersesian examines a wide range of business problems in marketing, finance, and operations that require an optimal solution, yet where no linearity exists. That is, he tackles problems that cannot accurately be solved using Excel’s Solver or other traditional linear optimization tools.

In addition, he considers the element of uncertainty inherent in these problems that other optimizers ignore. That is, he looks at ways to find not only the optimal solution to a given problem in a static state, but the best solution that simultaneously considers what may happen to the factors outside of your control.

To do this, Prof. Nersesian leverages the power of RISKOptimizer’s unique genetic algorithms and its Monte Carlo simulation engine (from the world-leading @RISK software) to solve problems ranging from yield management to capital planning. The book also comes with detailed example spreadsheets you can use and modify to meet your company’s particular needs.

Topics covered include:

• Pricing airline ticket discounts
• Selecting advertising media
• Reorder point and order quantity
• Safety stock and combining warehouses
• Sizing a warehouse
• Integrating production and inventory control
• Trigger points and production length run
• Supply chain management
• Line balancing
• Managing quality performance
• Siting an ambulance station
• Personnel planning
• Tollgates and bank tellers
• Transportation planning
• Capital planning
• Evaluating a royalty and tax structure