15.053 Introduction to Optimization, Spring 2004
Image of optimization application in radiation therapy. (Image by Prof. James Orlin.)
Highlights of this Course
This class features a complete set of
lectures and
recitations, as well as some
tools that expand the capabilities of Microsoft® Excel.
» View an older version of this course en Español or em Portugues courtesy of Universia. Please note that since our Spring 2005 publication, the translated version available from Universia may not have the most current content that is available on the MIT OCW site.
Course Description
15.053 introduces students to the theory, algorithms, and applications of optimization. Optimization methodologies include linear programming, network optimization, integer programming, decision trees, and dynamic programming. The methods have applications to logistics, manufacturing, transportation, marketing, project management, and finance.
Technical Requirements
Microsoft® Excel software is recommended for viewing the .xls files found on this course site. Free Microsoft® Excel viewer software can also be used to view the .xls files. Any number of programs can call the .dll files found on this course site. These files are also executable. Please refer to the course materials for any specific instructions or recommendations.