OPERATIONAL RESEARCH Meaning and
Definition
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Operational research, also known as operations research or OR, is a discipline that employs mathematical and analytical methods to study complex decision-making processes within organizations. It uses scientific and quantitative approaches to tackle problems related to the planning, operation, and control of complex systems.
The goal of operational research is to find optimal solutions and make insightful recommendations by maximizing efficiency and effectiveness. It involves a systematic approach to problem-solving and uses mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, optimization techniques, and computer simulations. By analyzing data, developing mathematical models, and applying various algorithms, operational research helps organizations make informed decisions and improve their overall performance.
Operational research is characterized by its interdisciplinary nature, drawing concepts and techniques from mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering, economics, and management sciences. It can be applied to a wide range of problems, including supply chain management, logistics, scheduling, transportation, production planning, resource allocation, decision-making under uncertainty, and risk management.
The field of operational research originated during World War II when military strategists used mathematical modeling and statistical analysis to optimize military operations. Since then, it has expanded to find applications in various sectors, including healthcare, finance, transportation, energy, telecommunications, and environmental management. Operational research has significantly contributed to improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing decision-making processes for organizations worldwide.
Common Misspellings for OPERATIONAL RESEARCH
- operationa research
- operation research
- iperational research
- kperational research
- lperational research
- pperational research
- 0perational research
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- ooerational research
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- opwrational research
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Etymology of OPERATIONAL RESEARCH
The term "operational research" is composed of two key components: "operational" and "research".
The word "operational" comes from the Latin word "operatio", which means "a working, operation, labor". It entered the English language in the mid-17th century, adapting from the Middle French word "operatioun" and the Late Latin word "operationalis". Over time, "operational" has come to refer to the functioning and management of an organization or system, particularly in relation to its efficiency and effectiveness.
The word "research" traces its roots to the Latin word "re-", which means "again" or "back", and "cerchare", meaning "to search". It entered English in the late 16th century, derived from the Middle French word "recerche" or "recherche".
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