Operational Research: Definition and Meaning

Background

Operational research (OR) is a discipline that deals with the application of advanced analytical methods to help make better decisions. It employs mathematical and statistical techniques to address and solve practical problems encountered in business and industrial settings.

Historical Context

The origins of operational research trace back to the early 20th century but gained significant importance during World War II when it was extensively used for military logistics and operations. Post-war, the techniques and principles were extended and adapted for use in industry and business.

Definitions and Concepts

Operational research can be defined as the application of mathematical, statistical, and analytical methods to decision-making and problem-solving in business, government, and other organizations. The goal is to find optimal or near-optimal solutions to complex decision problems.

Major Analytical Frameworks

Classical Economics

• Focuses on the efficient allocation of limited resources but does not deeply delve into the methods and analytics operational research employs.

Neoclassical Economics

• Uses mathematical models that partially overlap with operational research, especially in optimization and equilibrium analysis.

Keynesian Economics

• Although more macro-focused, some elements like quantitative policy impact analysis may involve operational research methods.

Marxian Economics

• Primarily concerned with long-term social outcomes; less emphasis on the operational and technical methodologies that define operational research.

Institutional Economics

• Investigates the institutional framework within which operational research could be applied. Its analysis on governance of institutions might harmonize with process optimization in OR.

Behavioral Economics

• While operational research assumes rationality, behavioral economics considers irrational behaviors impacting decision processes, presenting an additional layer to traditional OR methods.

Post-Keynesian Economics

• Similar to Keynesian but focuses on elements that can include operational planning and problem-solving especially in uncertain economic periods.

Austrian Economics

• Emphasizes free-market mechanisms over mathematical models; less directly connected but improved decision-making via operational research can influence business practices promoted by Austrian economics.

Development Economics

• Can utilize operational research for optimizing developmental aid distribution, policy implementation efficiency, and planning of developmental projects.

Monetarism

• Applies operational research in the form of statistical analysis and econometric modeling to analyze monetary policy impacts.

Comparative Analysis

Operational research bridges the gap between theoretical economic models and real-world business problems. While traditional economic theories build the conceptual foundation, OR provides the practical tools and methodologies for actual application and optimization within organizations.

Case Studies

1. Inventory Control in Retail:
   • Utilized by retailers to balance stock levels to reduce holding costs while avoiding stockouts.
2. Airline Scheduling:
   • Applied to manage flight schedules, crew assignments, and maintenance checks optimally.
3. Delivery Systems Optimization:
   • Employed by logistics companies like FedEx and UPS to deliver packages efficiently using route optimization algorithms.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

1. “Operations Research: An Introduction” by Taha H. A.
2. “Introduction to Operations Research” by Hillier and Lieberman.
3. “Research Methods for Operations Management” by Chris Voss, Nikos Tsikritsis, and Mark Frohlich.
4. “Operations Management: An Integrated Approach” by R. Dan Reid and Nada R. Sanders.

Related Terms with Definitions

• Linear Programming: A mathematical method for determining the best allocation of resources given constraints.

• Critical Path Analysis: A procedure for assessing project timelines by identifying project elements critical to overall completion.

• Queing Theory: A framework for the study of waiting lines, useful in optimizing service processes in various settings.

• Inventory Analysis: Techniques used to manage and control stock levels, optimize ordering processes, and minimize costs.

This dictionary entry provides an encompassing view, ampliative both in analytical depth and methodological exposition, connecting operational research robustly with various theoretical and practical realms in economics.