Introduction to Management Science: A Quantitative Approach to Decision Making

Applications-oriented introduction to the role of management science in decision- making. Best-selling text in the market. Blends problem formulation, managerial interpretation, and math techniques with an emphasis on problem solving. Problem-scenario approach introduces quantitative procedures through situations that include both problem formulation and technique application. ''Management Science in Practice'' features demonstrate how techniques have been successfully applied by companies like Kodak and Upjohn. ''Management Science in Action'' vignettes, new to this edition, provide brief overviews of how chapter material has been used successfully in practice. Unique ''Notes & Comments'' sections provide warnings, limitations, recommended applications, and other tips. Extensive linear programming coverage includes problem formulation, computer solution, and practical application. Text covers transportation, assignment, and the integer programming extension of linear programming, as well as advanced topics like waiting line problems, simulation, and decision analysis. Large selection of problems includes self-test problems with complete solutions and 20 case problems. Spreadsheet appendices added to this edition.

Thomas A. Williams is Professor of Management Science in the College of Business at Rochester Institute of Technology. Born in Elmira New York he earned his B.S. degree at Clarkson University. He did his graduate work at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute where he received his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees.