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Beyond problem structuring methods: reinventing the future of OR/MS

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  • M C Jackson

    (University of Hull, Hull, East Yorkshire)

Abstract

Some of the most influential pioneers of OR felt disappointed by the way it developed in the 1960s and 1970s. In their view, the original intention to create a holistic, interdisciplinary science addressed to strategic problems was betrayed. Problem structuring methods (PSMs) have made a significant contribution to taking OR/MS forward again in the direction charted by those pioneers. From a theoretical perspective, however, it is clear that the opportunities provided by PSMs tend to be limited to those drawn from the interpretive paradigm. That is only one way of adding to the positivist/quantitative approach of classical OR/MS. This paper suggests that OR has an obligation to explore a wider range of theoretical options and to convert the possibilities offered by all of these into a form that managers and management scientists can use. Only in this way can OR be reinvented to live up to the ambitions of its founders.

Suggested Citation

  • M C Jackson, 2006. "Beyond problem structuring methods: reinventing the future of OR/MS," Journal of the Operational Research Society, Palgrave Macmillan;The OR Society, vol. 57(7), pages 868-878, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:jorsoc:v:57:y:2006:i:7:d:10.1057_palgrave.jors.2602093
    DOI: 10.1057/palgrave.jors.2602093
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Mingers, John & Rosenhead, Jonathan, 2004. "Problem structuring methods in action," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 152(3), pages 530-554, February.
    2. M C Jackson, 2005. "Sexing-up the evidence: a reply to Ormerod and Ulrich," Journal of the Operational Research Society, Palgrave Macmillan;The OR Society, vol. 56(4), pages 467-468, April.
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