Integer Programming

A practical, accessible guide to optimization problems with discrete or integer variables Integer Programming stands out from other textbooks by explaining in clear and simple terms how to construct custom-made algorithms or use existing commercial software to obtain optimal or near-optimal solutions for a variety of real-world problems, such as airline timetables, production line schedules, or electricity production on a regional or national scale. Incorporating recent developments that have made it possible to solve difficult optimization problems with greater accuracy, author Laurence A. Wolsey presents a number of state-of-the-art topics not covered in any other textbook. These include improved modeling, cutting plane theory and algorithms, heuristic methods, and branch-and-cut and integer programming decomposition algorithms. This self-contained text: Distinguishes between good and bad formulations in integer programming problems Applies lessons learned from easy integer programs to more difficult problems Demonstrates with applications theoretical and practical aspects of problem solving Includes useful notes and end-of-chapter exercises Offers tremendous flexibility for tailoring material to different needs Integer Programming is an ideal text for courses in integer/mathematical programming-whether in operations research, mathematics, engineering, or computer science departments. It is also a valuable reference for industrial users of integer programming and researchers who would like to keep up with advances in the field.