Business Commons^™

A Computational Algorithm For A Class Of Dynamic Programming Problems, B. Miller, Daniel Teichroew

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

This paper describes an algorithm for finding the optimum value of a decision variable in the standard dynamic programming recurrence equation, when the state is described by one variable and the return function and state transition function are both linear one-to-one functions of the decision variable. The approach has been successfully programmed for a class of dynamic programming problems and has been found to be computationally much faster than searching over a set of possible decision values, even when the Fibonacci search method (the fastest search method available) is used. [Likely published circa 1966.]

Optimal Issuing Policies In Inventory Management -- I, William P. Pierskalla

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

We are concerned with generalizations of the inventory depletion model where the inventory deteriorates in time as it remains on the shelf. Earlier authors writing on this subject have placed many restrictive assumptions on the model. The assumption of one demand source withdrawing items from the stockpile is removed and the case of several demand sources is considered. Next, it is assumed that there is a constant penalty cost, p, each time an item is issued. p can be described as an installation or work stoppage cost. Finally, the assumption that the field life, L(S), is a concave or convex …

The Price Of A Better Way: A Cost Study Of Unidos, Joseph S. Churchman

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

This study was conducted to determine if the UNIDOS, University Downtown Study, Group C project for computer controlled vehicles in Cleveland is feasible. Cost and revenue studies were conducted to find a range of values for each. Corresponding levels of each were compared to find the economic feasibility of the system. The political implications, and possible ways of dealing effectively with them, were presented. Many people and several companies helped in supplying information; their contributions were described in the history and bibliography of this report. Finally, the summary gave possible courses of action for UNIDOS to follow.

Combinatoric Problems In Multiproduct Inventory Analysis, Richard V. Evans

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

Problems of finding the stationary distribution of inventory level in certain multi product inventory systems are considered. All systems return the inventory level to a single point, S , whenever a restocking occurs. The probability of any inventory level, x , can be expanded in terms of the probability of being at S and the occurrence of a sequence of demands leading from S to x . Combinatoric problems arise naturally in counting demand sequences. Closed form results are given in certain special cases for which the combinatoric results are known. [Likely published circa 1966.]

An Empirical Investigation On Land Values In The Cleveland Area, Regis C. Deroudille

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

This thesis presents an empirical investigation of the determinants of residential land values in the Cleveland area. It is a part of an overall study on urban systems, which was sponsored by the Cleveland Seven County Land Use and Transportation Study (SCOTS). The aim of this research is to establish a functional relationship between land values and a set of socio-economic variables. We are particularly interested in the effects of distance and travel time from the central business district to residential areas. To the best of our knowledge, only a few empirical studies such as ours have been undertaken in …

Finite-Source Queuing Models, N. K. Jaiswal

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

Queuing models in which the units emanate from at least one finite population, to which it returns after getting service are termed finite-source queuing models. The simplest model of this type has application to the machine interference problem. Previous work on this model is reviewed and the solution is discussed in detail by the use of the supplementary variable technique and renewal theory. Some generalizations are discussed and problems for further work are pointed out.

Mathematical Programming With Joint Stochastic Constraints, Pierre J. Doulliez

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

In the present thesis, we want to show that a programming problem with joint stochastic constraints can be treated generally and under relatively simple conditions, as a quasi-concave programming problem. In some cases, the same problem may be equivalent to a concave programming problem after a logarithmic transformation. It has been shown by Charnes and Cooper that a stochastic programming problem where each constraint has to be achieved with a given probability, can be put under the form of a deterministic programming problem which is concave under some assumptions [1]. The "joint chance-constraint" formulation presented here is less restrictive and …

1966 Faculty Meeting Minutes, Morehead State College

Faculty Senate Records

Faculty meeting minutes of Morehead State College for 1966.

1965-11-13, Morehead State Board Of Regents

Morehead State Board of Regents Agenda Books and Meeting Minutes

No abstract provided.

Advisory Group Conference Prepaid Dental Plan Research Study, Burton V. Dean

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

This conference was conducted with the purpose of investigating current studies and research needs in the area of prepaid dentistry. With the increase in growth of this area of dentistry and the accompanying importance of research, it is appropriate to appraise research needs and objectives at this time. Participants from the Public Health Service, American Dental Association, dental plans, and universities discussed prepaid dentistry at this conference. Particular reference in this conference was made to the analysis of needs of dental plan members and the associated utilizations and costs of dental plan services.

A Dynamic Restorative Emergency Procedure For An Electrical Power Network, Benjamin Avi-Itzhak, Burton V. Dean, Maurice W. Sasieni

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

The study described in this working paper is a first attempt of its kind to develop a computerized mathematical procedure for controlling an electric power system in emergency situations. An emergency situation arises when there is reason to believe that the system is unable to supply all the power demanded by customers. The C.E.I. system is supported by interconnection tie lines that help overcome power deficiency in almost all conceivable situations. Nevertheless, in cases of a breakdown involving more than one major component of the network, the interconnections might not be able to withstand the additional flows into the C.E.I. …

1965-09-10, Morehead State Board Of Regents

Morehead State Board of Regents Agenda Books and Meeting Minutes

No abstract provided.

Stochastic Networks In Research Planning, Burton V. Dean

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

This paper explores the development and application of a planning method for research studies, addressing the limitations of conventional project management tools like CPM and PERT in handling the uncertainties inherent in research processes. A research study is modeled as a sequential acquisition of knowledge, represented by a stochastic network of events (knowledge levels) and activities (tasks). The stochastic nature of the network incorporates probabilistic parameters such as success likelihood, estimated costs, and expected time, which are periodically updated by researchers. Decision models are proposed to optimize task sequencing, alternative selection, and funding allocation, with criteria emphasizing cost minimization and …

Report On The Research Project On Competitive Enterprise, Gifford H. Symonds

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

The proposal called for an investigation of the questions: Why have different forms of competitive industrial behavior produced the observed results, and under what circumstances can any desired, or required, results be obtained? The problem considered is far more than an economic problem. It was believed that political science would help explain the relations between government and industry, that sociology would provide for understanding of group enterprise, that psychology would give insight into motivation of people and organizations, and that mathematics would provide the structure for analysis, evaluation and description. Therefore, the project was organized as a multidiscipline operations research …

Stochastic Scheduling - Part Iv Solution Methods For Stochastic Programming Problems, Gifford H. Symonds, Pierre J. Doulliez, C. Steinmetz, T.S. Chidambaram

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

This paper seeks to prove the basic theorem of stochastic programming that an optimal solution of the certainty equivalent problem is also an optimal solution of the stochastic programming problem. This basic theorem applies to both non-linear space in X as well as to linear space in X. The remaining sections of this paper are concerned with developing general solution methods for stochastic linear programming problems when all of the variables are contained in the b vector.

Gross, Blackwell & Company Mercantile Capitalists In The Southwest, 1867-1902, Ray L. Carroll

Anderson School of Management Theses & Dissertations

The main purpose of this thesis is to present the history of a business enterprise in a capitalistic society. More specifically, it is a study of the administration and operation of a business in the past. Another purpose is to give a meaning to the fundamental changes which occurred in the administration of this business, in its policies, control and management; and to give some understanding of how and why these changes came about. Still another purpose is to meet the need for a broad business experience which the individual student and business man can obtain only vicariously. Lastly, it …

Study Of The Reliability Of Peer Nominations And Their Relationship With Nominations By Superiors Within An Established Organization, Ronald W. Miller

Masters Theses

Introduction

The Purpose

Recent years have seen an increasing interest in the application of peer evaluation techniques. One such technique is that of peer nominations. This study is designed to determine the reliability of peer nominations and their relationship with nominations by superiors within an established organization.

A Behavioral Model Of Labor Supply As Related To Wage-Price-Interest Movements, Gifford H. Symonds, S. Sankar Sengupta

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

The major purpose of this paper is to develop an aggregate model of interdependence of the labor, money, and product markets. As is well-known, this interdependence is due to the joint and mutual influence of the prices established in these markets. One approach is to restrict the analysis to the interactions among the observable outcomes (prices) of these markets. From a statistical viewpoint, this analysis can be performed, for example, by means of a suitable Markov model. A pure mathematical analysis can be made by applying the dynamical models due to Samuelson, Arrow, and Arrow-Enthoven. The common limitation of this …

Stochastic Scheduling - Part Iii Optimization Procedures, Gifford H. Symonds

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

This study explores optimization procedures for scheduling production under deterministic demand. An objective function minimizes production rates and inventory costs, modeled as convex, differentiable functions. The derived optimal schedule balances production and inventory levels, ensuring proportional adjustments across periods. The findings offer a mathematical framework for efficient production planning and inventory management.

Negligence In The Operation Of Business Aircraft, Daniel J. Garber

Masters Theses

Introduction

Basis for Business Aircraft

The use of airplanes as a production tool for executives and supervisory personnel by business firms in practically all fields of endeavor is ever increasing. This is true even though the airlines have largely substituted pure jet aircraft for piston powered airplanes and turbo-propelled ships on the trunk routes. This makes it more difficult for the business aircraft to save the executives of a company time and money by cutting down transportation waste in obtaining more hours of usefulness from those persons using business aircraft transportation and less expense for employee's hotel, meals and other …

A Survey Of Statistical Techniques For Experiments In Which Organisms Are Used As Blocks, Daniel Teichroew

Research Reports from the Department of Operations

This paper examines advancements in experimental design influenced by computer capabilities, particularly in cases where treatments are assigned to blocks treated as individual organisms. Two key challenges are highlighted: the likelihood of correlated observations within a block and the dynamic nature of designing experiments where the structure, size, and form depend on prior results. The study surveys existing literature addressing the first challenge, focusing on the use of organisms as blocks, while the second challenge—real-time experimental adjustments enabled by computers—is discussed in the concluding section. The findings suggest that while multiple models are available, comparative studies are limited, and further …

1965-05-31, Morehead State Board Of Regents

Morehead State Board of Regents Agenda Books and Meeting Minutes

No abstract provided.

Planning And Scheduling Software Programs With Pert, Henry E. Mielo

Theses

The use of the Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) in planning and scheduling software programs was discussed in this thesis. A real world program, referred to as the Wrap-Around Simulation or WAS Project, was selected to illustrate that complex efforts in the software domain can respond favorably to modern planning and scheduling techniques

The WAS Project included the provision of a digital simulation of the shipboard environment in which a Digital Fire Control Computer (DFCC) would operate as part of a Digital Fire Control System. The digital simulation afforded a well controlled and conclusive checkout of the operational program …

An Analysis Of The Influence Of Nuclear Reactor Safety Philosophy On The Growth Of The Civilian Nuclear Power Industry In The United States, John E. Wimberg

Anderson School of Management Theses & Dissertations

Experience during and after World War II with the atomic and the hydrogen bombs left a definite and intended cloak of secrecy around the concept of atomic power. Words such as “Nagasaki” and “Hiroshima” would cause most people at once to conjure up horrible thoughts of devastation and destruction, and to recall thousands of deaths from blast, thermal, and radiation effects. The tremendous impact from a military use of atomic energy left a vivid impression in the minds of many people. During the early post-war years very few settled their thinking to that concerning untouched potential uses of the power …

Decision Order Technique (Dot) The Integration Of Decision Concepts Into System Analysis, Dale P. Brautigam

Anderson School of Management Theses & Dissertations

Much of the systems work of the past few decades has tended to be oriented toward resolving specific operational problems. This has given an aura of trouble-shooting to all of systems work and has often produced a patchwork of systems and procedures that may not necessarily be compatible with each other.

A system is an orderly arrangement of interdependent activities and related procedures which implements and facilitates the performance of activity of an organization.

Office automation applications, including the use of computers, has similarly followed specific problem orientation that has not permitted its optimum utilization as a powerful systems tool. …

An Investigation Of The Use Of Technical-Career Programs In Large Research And Development Laboratories, William L. Stevens

Anderson School of Management Theses & Dissertations

The term technical-career program refers to a career structure, separate from the conventional hierarchical structure for management, for technical staff members whose contributions are primarily technical and scientific rather than administrative. Other names used for the technical-career program concept include dual ladders, dual lines of progression, parallel progression, and parallel paths. The problem of formulating a career structure for technical staffs has become more important in recent years, largely because more and more scientists and engineers are employed in research and development laboratories. Yet, despite the frequent reference to the concept of technical-career programs in the general managerial literature, there …

An Evaluation Of The Salary Policies And Practices Of The University Of New Mexico, James M. Etherton

Anderson School of Management Theses & Dissertations

On February 28, 1889, the Territorial Legislature passed the act which established the University of New Mexico. At the time the university consisted of a handful of students and faculty in a single building on twenty acres of barren mesa. It was basically a series of one-man organizations, each a faculty member who reported directly to the president. Policies and procedures, when established, did not require elaboration or great formality. Proprietor-employee relationships existed, and all employees were in a faculty family where each knew the other and problems were handled with decorum and dispatch. In the salary area, for example, …

A Survey Of The Systems Organization And Middle Managers In An Automated Management Information And Control System, Sherrill O. Woodall

Anderson School of Management Theses & Dissertations

The trend towards automated management practices has caused speculation concerning the impact of automation on the middle management function. It is the purpose of this research to postulate the probable effects of systems automation on middle management and to investigate the resultant role of the Management Systems Organization.

A Further Inquiry Into The Question Of Branch Banking And Economic Growth: A Comparative Nation-Wide Study Of Statewide Branch Banking, Limited Area Branch Banking, And Unit Banking, Donald J. Mackay

Anderson School of Management Theses & Dissertations

Since the passage of the National Banking Act of 1933, the right of banks to branch has been determined by state law. Prior to the passage of the Act, inconsistencies between federal and state legislation made the controversy over branch banking an issue of national prominence. The change in 1933 removed the disharmonies between state and federal law by allowing state law to be the determining one with respect to the right of banks to branch. With the matter left in the hands of individual states, the controversy over branch banking has faded as a vital issue of national banking …

An Investigation Into The Extent Of Participation And Practices Of Employers In The Use Of Tuition-Refund Plans, Hershel L. Adams

Anderson School of Management Theses & Dissertations

This paper examines the extent of participation and practices of employers in business and government, within the state of New Mexico, in the use of tuition-refund plans to encourage and stimulate employees to acquire additional abilities through the educational process. An insight into the problems and methods to be encountered by the individual employer in measuring the effectiveness of such plans is presented.