Operations Research Mathematical Framework

Comprehensive mapping of mathematical domains to real-world OR applications

Every complex business problem can be broken down into mathematical foundations. This framework shows how I approach data challenges using proven mathematical principles from operations research.

1. Linear Algebra
Vector spaces, matrices, eigenvalues, decomposition
Core Applications
  • Portfolio optimization (covariance matrices)
  • Network flows (adjacency, incidence matrices)
  • Recommendation systems (matrix factorization, SVD)
  • PCA for dimensionality reduction
Advanced Uses
  • Markov chains (transition matrices)
  • Graph algorithms (shortest path)
  • Power grid optimization (load flow)
  • Image processing in quality control
2. Optimization Theory
Calculus, gradients, KKT conditions, duality
Linear Programming (LP)
  • Production scheduling
  • Resource allocation
  • Transportation problems
  • Diet and blending problems
Integer Programming (IP/MIP)
  • Facility location (warehouses, stores)
  • Scheduling (staff, production, OR)
  • Network design (telecom)
  • Vehicle routing
Nonlinear/Convex
  • Portfolio optimization (quadratic)
  • Revenue management pricing
  • ML model training
  • Control systems
3. Stochastic Processes
Random variables, distributions, expectation, conditional probability
Queuing Theory
  • Hospital bed allocation
  • Call center staffing
  • Service desk optimization
  • Traffic flow analysis
Markov Processes
  • Customer behavior modeling
  • Inventory with uncertain demand
  • Maintenance scheduling
  • Epidemic modeling
Monte Carlo
  • Risk assessment in finance
  • Project management (PERT)
  • Complex system simulation
  • Demand forecasting validation
4. Graph Theory
Graphs, trees, connectivity, flows
Path Problems
  • Route optimization / GPS navigation
  • Network routing (telecom)
  • TSP (delivery routes, circuit boards)
Flow Problems
  • Maximum flow / minimum cut
  • Supply chain network capacity
  • Pipeline optimization
  • Bandwidth allocation
Network Design
  • Minimum spanning tree (utilities)
  • Transportation logistics
  • Assignment problems

See this in action:

5. Game Theory
Strategic decision-making, Nash equilibrium, utility theory
Applications
  • Pricing strategies (competitive markets)
  • Auction design (spectrum allocation)
  • Contract negotiation (supply chain)
  • Resource allocation (competition)
  • Security games (patrol scheduling)

See this in action:

6. Dynamic Programming
Bellman equations, optimal control, recursion
Time-Based Optimization
  • Inventory management (multi-period)
  • Production planning over time
  • Revenue management (dynamic pricing)
  • Maintenance scheduling
Algorithms
  • Resource allocation over time
  • Shortest path (Dijkstra, Bellman-Ford)
7. Real and Functional Analysis
Continuity, convergence, optimization on function spaces
Applications
  • Continuous optimization problems
  • Calculus of variations (optimal paths)
  • Infinite-dimensional optimization
  • Convergence analysis of algorithms
  • Approximation theory for models

See this in action:

8. Discrete Mathematics
Counting, permutations, combinations, set theory
Scheduling
  • Staff rostering
  • Production scheduling
  • Timetabling (courses, exams)
Combinatorial Problems
  • Assignment problems
  • Bin packing (container loading)
  • Set covering (crew scheduling)
  • Combinatorial auctions

See this in action:

9. Numerical Analysis
Approximation methods, iterative algorithms, error analysis
Computational Methods
  • Solving large linear systems (sparse)
  • Gradient descent methods
  • Newton's method (nonlinear opt)
  • Numerical integration in simulation
  • Finite element methods
10. Statistical Analysis
Estimation, hypothesis testing, regression
Forecasting
  • Demand forecasting (ARIMA)
  • Time series analysis
  • Regression models
Quality and Testing
  • Statistical process control (SPC)
  • Six Sigma methodologies
  • A/B testing (pricing, products)
  • Reliability analysis
  • Survival analysis (churn, failure)
  • Experimental design
11. Information Theory
Entropy, mutual information, coding theory
Applications
  • Network capacity planning (Shannon)
  • Data compression for logistics
  • Communication system optimization
  • Feature selection in ML

See this in action:

12. Topology and Diff. Geometry
Continuous spaces, manifolds
Applications
  • Robot path planning (config spaces)
  • Network topology optimization
  • Manifold learning (dimension reduction)

See this in action:

Cross-Cutting Real-World Examples

Supply Chain Optimization

  • Linear algebra: Network flow matrices
  • Stochastic processes: Demand uncertainty
  • Graph theory: Transportation networks
  • Optimization: Cost minimization
  • Statistics: Demand forecasting

Portfolio Optimization

  • Linear algebra: Covariance matrices
  • Stochastic processes: Asset price modeling
  • Optimization: Efficient frontier
  • Statistics: Parameter estimation
  • Numerical analysis: Solving systems

Hospital Scheduling

  • Stochastic: Queuing (patient arrivals)
  • Discrete math: Staff scheduling
  • Optimization: Resource allocation
  • Statistics: Demand patterns
  • Dynamic programming: Multi-period

Ready to Apply This Methodology?

Let's discuss how these mathematical frameworks can solve your business challenges.