Special Topic 3 - Graph Theory

Due 27/4/99

This assignment contributes 20% of the mark for Special Topic 3.

Choose a real problem to which you could apply some form of network optimisation model. The problem may relate to your current or previous employment. It should concern something that you feel could be done better and network analysis could help improve the situation.

Discuss the situation. What is the problem? Express the problem as a network optimisation model.Define carefully all variables used in the model. The logic of your model should be made clear, either in mathematical form or in a spreadsheet presentation by explaining how all cell values are calculated. Discuss the collection of data for the model.

Construct a (possibly simplified) model of your problem and solve using the techniques of this unit. Discuss your results. What further investigations do you recommend?

Equal marks for each of the following

• Description of the problem
• Network model
• Numerical problem and solution
• Discussion of results