Optimization

How it is used

Used both for mathematical methods (linear and integer programming, heuristics) and, more loosely, for any improvement. People run an optimization, use optimization software and talk about cost or schedule optimization. Analysts warn against improving one area at the expense of the whole system.

Example sentences

1. Route optimization cut our trucks' fuel use by about 9%.

2. With schedule optimization, the planner gets a first plan in minutes instead of a full day.

Common collocations

• cost optimization
• run an optimization
• optimization model
• optimization software

Related terms

• linear programmingA mathematical method for finding the best result, such as the lowest cost or highest profit, when the goal and all the limits can be written as linear equations.
• objective functionIn an optimization model, the formula that measures what you want to minimize or maximize, such as total cost, profit or delivery time.
• constraintA limit that a solution must respect, such as available machine hours, budget or storage space. In the Theory of Constraints, the resource that limits the whole system.
• simulationA computer model that imitates how a real system, such as a factory, warehouse or queue, behaves over time, so you can test changes before making them.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

• optimization · Software Engineering
• optimization · Game Development

More terms: Operations Research

• queueing theory