Optimeringsmetoder innen operasjonsanalyse - en oversiktsstudie

This report has been written as a part of project 1068 Methods and models for analyzing peace and low intensity operations. Optimization is a well established tool within the area of operations research. However, optimization is not used to a large extent for analytic purposes at the Institute. The purpose of this report is to show some of the possibilities that lie in the use of optimization, especially within the type of problems that often form the basis of analyses performed at the Institute. Different types of optimization models are described, in addition to some of the methods that are commonly used to solve these problems. The report also speaks of the differences between optimization and other common methods within the area of operations research. Some of the challenges in the use of optimization are described. Experience is essential for optimization to be an effective tool for analysis. It is also necessary with access to quality tools which are easily integrated with other applications.