IntroductionÂ
We can describe Operation Research as an  systematic approach in problem solving, it uses one or more analytical tools in the process of analysis, it also uses mathematical techniques to problem solving to obtain optimum solution, it is the organised application of modern science, mathematics and computer techniques. Operation Research (OR) is an analytical method of problem-solving and decision-making that is useful in the management of organizations. In operations research, problems are broken down into basic components and then solved in defined steps by mathematical analysis.It is a scientific method of providing executive with an analytical and objective for decision making.It can also be define as a systematic  method oriented on the basis of structure, characteristics, functions, relationship of an organisation to provide the executive with a scientific and quantitative  basis for decision making
- It signifies Research on operations
- It is an organised application of modern science, mathematics and computer techniques in the various fields.
- The purpose of OR is to provide explicit quantitative understanding and assessment of complex situations for arriving at best decisions.
Phases of Operations Research
1. Formulating the problem
- Statement of an unambiguous objective
- Specification of factors that will affect the objective
- specification of the  constrain on the Cours of action
2. Constructing a modelÂ
- Physical model
- Analogue model
- Mathematical model
- Computational model
3. Deriving the solutions from the model
- Simulation technique
- Optimum seeking technique
4. Testing the model and its solution ( updating the model)
5. Controlling the solutionÂ
6. ImplementationÂ
Scope of Operations Research
In an organisation there can be possibility that technicians, administrators statisticians  and economist may work together to solve the problem using OR.
The various other fields where OR is used
- Agriculture
- Finance
- Research and Development
- Marketing
- Personnel management
- Production management
Applications
- Scheduling airlines, including both plane and crew
- Deciding the appropriate place to site new facilities such as warehouse , fire house or factory
- Managing the flow of water from reservoir
- Identifying possible  future development paths for the parts of telecommunication industry
- Establishing the information needs and appropriate systems to supply them within the health services
- Identifying and understanding the strategies adopted by companies for their information systems
Uses
- It provide a logical and systematic approach to the problem
- It allows modification mathematical solution before it is in use
- Suggests all the alternate course of action for the same management
- Facilitates improved quality of decision
- Leads to optimum use of managers production factor
- Indicates the scope as well as the limitations of  a problem
