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Engaging Students in Optimization Modeling: Gaining Business Disruption Insights

Author

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  • Julie Ann Stuart Williams

    (Department of Business Administration, University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida 32514)

  • Randall Reid

    (Department of Business Administration, University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida 32514)

  • Philip E. Billings

    (Digital Innovation Center of Excellence, FedEx Services, Collierville, Tennessee 38017)

  • Natalie C. Belford

    (Department of Business Administration, University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida 32514)

Abstract

How can students prepare for potential business disruptions? The approach shown in this paper uses optimization modeling with parametric sensitivity analysis and further broadens the search for insights with structural sensitivity analysis in a series of contextual exercises. The exercises prompt students to identify critical resources for business impact analysis by extending production planning to include scenario analyses and contingency considerations. During virtual office hours, one participant described the exercises in terms of a “mystery” to solve. For an open-ended contingency planning question, some participants even proposed new product design decisions. Upon conclusion of the study, 25 of the 28 participants recommended the exercises for future semesters.

Suggested Citation

  • Julie Ann Stuart Williams & Randall Reid & Philip E. Billings & Natalie C. Belford, 2023. "Engaging Students in Optimization Modeling: Gaining Business Disruption Insights," INFORMS Transactions on Education, INFORMS, vol. 24(1), pages 85-94, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:orited:v:24:y:2023:i:1:p:85-94
    DOI: 10.1287/ited.2022.0279
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Julie Ann Stuart Williams & Maxwell Rankin & Kristine Gallamore & Randall Reid, 2016. "Beyond Model Formulation: Assessment of Novices Graphing, Interpreting, and Writing About Their Model and Solution," INFORMS Transactions on Education, INFORMS, vol. 17(1), pages 13-19, September.
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