Linear Programming: Network Models
Kenneth R. Baker · 2011
The network model describes configurations of flow in a connected system, where the flow might involve material, people, funds, and so on. These configurations are conveniently described with flow diagrams, which help in the development of valid spreadsheet models. The possibility of doing some of the model building with a diagram makes network models a special category of linear programs. This chapter describes three types of special network problems such as transportation, assignment and transshipment that illustrate the use of flow diagrams as visual aids. The distinguishing feature of special network models is an inherent From/To flow pattern that lends itself to the row and column format of the spreadsheet. The chapter moves on to general network problems involving other flow patterns, illustrates how to integrate the flow diagram with the development of a spreadsheet. It ends with illustrative examples and followed by a set of practice exercises. Controlled Vocabulary Terms Assignment problem; Earned value management; linear programming; Transhipment problem; Transportation problem