Representation Schemes for Mathematical Programming Models

Abstract

Because of the difficulties often experienced in formulating andunderstanding large scale models, much current research is directedtowards developing systems to support the construction andunderstanding of management science models. This paper discusses sixdifferent methods for representing mathematical programming modelsduring the formulation phase of the modeling process. The approachesdiscussed in the paper include algebra, three different kinds ofgraphical schemes, a database-oriented approach and StructuredModeling. We emphasize representations that have graphical elementssuitable for incorporation in the interface to a modeling system. Thedifferent methods are compared using a common example and conclusionsare drawn as to their suitability for various modeling tasks andsituations.

Keywords: Modeling, mathematical programming, graphics