An Illustrated Guide to Linear Programming

by Saul I. Gass

"I would not hesitate to recommend the book." — Industrial Engineering
Linear programming is an extremely effective problem-solving tool, with applications in business, agriculture, government, manufacturing, transportation, engineering, and many other areas. This very readable book presents an elementary introduction to linear programming in a refreshing, often humorous style.
Requiring no math beyond high-school algebra, the book shows how linear programming can help anyone reach the optimum solution for a host of diverse problems. Chapter One introduces the basic concepts of linear programming and discusses its relationship to other mathematical models. Chapter Two discusses the formulation of linear-programming problems, including detailed treatment of problems involving diet, catering, assignment, and activity analysis. Chapter Three briefly introduces solution techniques for linear-programming problems, emphasizing the graphical approach. The final chapter describes and formulates a number of important applications, including network problems, traveling-salesman problems and the relationship between linear programming and the theory of games.
Finally, a useful appendix offers precise statements of definitions, theorems and techniques, as well as additional computational procedures. Enlivened with over 70 excellent illustrations, this book represents a very accessible introduction to basic linear programming.

Genres: Mathematics, Science

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1970

Reviews

[Lucille Nguyen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Is what it says it is: an illustrated introductory guide to linear programming. Covers simple linear optimization problems, introduces the simplex method, offers an appendix for further learning. Good for what it sets out to do.

[Liam · Rating 4 out of 5]

"This type of diet problem was first formulated in the early 1940s -- before the discovery of the mathematics and solution procedures of linear programming. At that time, and economist, George J. Stigler, formulated a 77-food, nutrient-diet problem, using 1939 costs of the foods. Stigler's approach was by trial and error. ... His solution called for the use of only five foods at a total yearly cost of $39.93. ... The true minimum cost diet obtained by linear programming methods called for nine foods ... with a slightly better yearly cost of $39.67." (33-4)

"In situations ... where the newfangled mathematics is pitted against human experience, it is psychologically and strategically important to obtain the cooperation and interaction of the human element." (53)

[Valerie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not the most fun reading, but a great book on one of the most fascinating subjects in useful mathematics.