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FIGURE 9.9 User interface for an ILOG ODM-based application (ILOG, 2006).

relaxed preferences or constraints. The optimized solution—which
includes a recommended plan or schedule and the attendant
metrics—can easily be further explored, allowing users to
understand the optimization model’s dynamics and perhaps
identify better solution scenarios.

9.7 Mathematical Modeling Suites

9.7.1 MATLAB
MATLAB (short for matrix laboratory) is an interpreted language
for numerical computation (MathWorks, 2009). It allows performing
numerical calculations and then visualizing the results without
the need for complicated and time-consuming programming.
MATLAB allows users to solve problems accurately, to produce
graphics easily, and to generate code efficiently. It also enables
matrix manipulation, the plotting of functions and data,
implementation of algorithms, creation of user interfaces, and
interfacing with programs written in other languages. For technical
problem solving, MATLAB has many advantages over conventional
computer languages, as described next (see also Chapman, 2009).
Ease of use: Programs can be easily written and modified under
the built-in integrated development environment, and they can be
debugged using the MATLAB debugger.