Operations Research/Systems Analysis

Operations Research/Systems Analysis (also frequently referred to as Management Science) is the discipline of applying advanced analytical techniques to assist decision-makers in solving many types of complex problems in areas that include: strategic planning, policy analysis, systems development, requirements analysis, resource allocation, risk analysis, capital budgeting, inventory control, supply chain management, marketing analysis, production system design, data exploration and analysis, personnel assignment, product distribution, and resource scheduling.

One distinctive of this discipline is its reliance on developing mathematical models to characterize the systems under investigation. Depending upon the particular problem being addressed, these models might involve the use of probability and statistics, decision analysis, computer simulation, optimization, artificial intelligence, forecasting, cost-benefit analysis or any one of a number of other similar fields. The operations research practitioner has a firm grasp of all these techniques in order to choose one or more of them judiciously in addressing the problem at hand. He or she works in close coordination with subject matter experts in the specific problem area and often with the decision-maker himself. Many times the most important part of the solution is in helping the client think through the problem carefully and then structuring the decision process itself for him. While sometimes the decision process is formulated for an individual decision-maker, group decision-making is becoming increasingly common. Here the OR practitioner is often called upon to facilitate the group decision process helping its members to reach consensus.

Many Zazi members have extensive experience in using the techniques of operations research and systems analysis in solving complex problems in both the public and private sectors. One or more of them with just the right credentials will be made available wherever and whenever it is appropriate to do so. With experienced members available or identified in all disciplines likely to be needed, Zazi can provide unparalleled support in essentially every type of problem that has a quantitative component.

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