Maximal flow network modelling of production bottleneck problems

M D Troutt (), G P White and S K Tadisina
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M D Troutt: Kent State University
G P White: Southern Illinois University
S K Tadisina: Southern Illinois University

Journal of the Operational Research Society, 2001, vol. 52, issue 2, 182-187

Abstract: Abstract This paper considers the analysis of process networks with bottlenecks and shows how they may be regarded as simple multi-source maximal flow linear programming problems. We surveyed over 30 Production/Operations Management and management science/OR textbooks, finding that only iterative trial-and-error procedures are now being suggested for this kind of analysis. The maximal flow network approach is easier for complex problems and also allows several advantages not available in the trial-and-error approaches. This paper also discusses the use of a simple linear programming sensitivity result called radial change. The modelling approach suggested here can provide new ideas for improving system capacity following the application of Theory of Constraints techniques.

Keywords: theory of constraints; capacity decisions; linear programming; sensitivity analysis; radial change (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2001
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DOI: 10.1057/palgrave.jors.2601071

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