Abraham Charnes

Bio: Abraham Charnes is an academic researcher from University of Texas at Austin. The author has contributed to research in topics: Linear programming & Data envelopment analysis. The author has an hindex of 57, co-authored 222 publications receiving 63459 citations. Previous affiliations of Abraham Charnes include Carnegie Institution for Science & Northwestern University.

Dynamic multiattribute models for mixed manpower systems

Abstract: This paper reviews a wide variety of manpower and personnel models of the goal programming variety. This is done from a strategy-oriented point of view addressing the problems of interest for immediate implementation as well as basic problems of manpower model research development. Particular emphasis in this paper is concerned with how analytical models can be brought to bear on the problems of combining military and civilian manpower into one management system. This includes a discussion of the computer support arrangements necessary to implement the models. First, we discuss an extension of multilevel models to provide an integrated approach to program planning which includes the dynamics of the manpower requirements-inventory relationships of mixed military-civilian manpower systems. Then, focus is given to some of the potential Navy applications particularly in terms of ways the outputs from the global multilevel model might be interfaced with assignment models for operational planning. The paper concludes with a discussion of static and dynamic multiattribute assignment models which operate on the individual man-job matching level. It is at this level of detail that dynamic mixed manpower systems might be constructed for use in equal employment opportunity planning and for local organization design studies.

On some stocxastic tactical antisubmarine games

Abstract: : In this paper some mathematical models are developed of tactical problems which arise in Antisubmarine Warfare. Specifically, the authors consider a game of pursuit between a hunter-killer force, player 1, and a possible submarine, player 2. The game consists of a sequence of moves and it terminates when player 2 is caught or evades player 1. When the players move they observe the actual tactical configuration of the forces (state) and each player chooses a tactical plan from a finite collection. This joint choice of tactical plans determines an immediate payoff and a transition probability distribution over the states. Hence an expected payoff function is defined. Formally this game is a Terminating Stochastic Game and Shapley demonstrated the existence of a value and optimal strategies (solution). An iterative technique is proposed to approximate the solution to within desired accuracy. Each iteration of the technique is obtained by solving a set of linear programs.

An MDI Model and an Algorithm for Composite Hypotheses Testing and Estimation in Marketing

Abstract: This paper indicates how an information theoretic approach via the MDI minimum discrimination information statistic can be used to help provide a uniform approach to both statistical testing and estimation in various kinds of marketing analyses. Extensions to constrained versions of the MDI statistic also make it possible to test the consistency of market information with management plans or policies that can be represented in “external” constraints, i.e., constraints formulated without reference to the data base, and to estimate their impact on the market. Composite hypotheses, which are difficult to deal with by the more customary methods used in market research, can be dealt with naturally and easily via these MDI approaches. Basically MDI is more efficient than classical approaches because distribution estimation and hyopthesis testing are done simultaneously and the resulting estimates obtain regardless of the conclusion of the test. Numerical illustrations are supplied and discussed. Recent developments in mathematical programming duality theory and methods, which are also pertinent, are briefly examined for their bearing on still further possibilities for constrained MDI modeling.

Silhouette Functions of Short-Run Cost Behavior

Abstract: I. Introduction, 131. — II. Scope of the model, 132. — III. Mathematical statement of the model, 134. — IV. Profit maximization, 140. — V. Cost-quantity silhouettes, 145.

Vector extremal systems in cross-constrained games of regulatory policy analysis and synthesis☆

Abstract: Vector extremal solutions for games with cross-constrained strategy sets are applied to new games for analysis and synthesis of regulatory policy developed herein. They provide constructively, without recourse to point-to-set maps or quasi-variational inequalities, a set of solutions (not just one Nash equilibrium generalization) forecasting normatively players' behavior. A new method of vectorization of player's objectives provides dual problem relations at optimality which for a large class reduces the solution mathematics to ordinary convex programming. This method is developed in the context of a hypothetical example drawn from the privatization of British Telecom.

Some Models for Estimating Technical and Scale Inefficiencies in Data Envelopment Analysis

Abstract: In management contexts, mathematical programming is usually used to evaluate a collection of possible alternative courses of action en route to selecting one which is best. In this capacity, mathematical programming serves as a planning aid to management. Data Envelopment Analysis reverses this role and employs mathematical programming to obtain ex post facto evaluations of the relative efficiency of management accomplishments, however they may have been planned or executed. Mathematical programming is thereby extended for use as a tool for control and evaluation of past accomplishments as well as a tool to aid in planning future activities. The CCR ratio form introduced by Charnes, Cooper and Rhodes, as part of their Data Envelopment Analysis approach, comprehends both technical and scale inefficiencies via the optimal value of the ratio form, as obtained directly from the data without requiring a priori specification of weights and/or explicit delineation of assumed functional forms of relations between inputs and outputs. A separation into technical and scale efficiencies is accomplished by the methods developed in this paper without altering the latter conditions for use of DEA directly on observational data. Technical inefficiencies are identified with failures to achieve best possible output levels and/or usage of excessive amounts of inputs. Methods for identifying and correcting the magnitudes of these inefficiencies, as supplied in prior work, are illustrated. In the present paper, a new separate variable is introduced which makes it possible to determine whether operations were conducted in regions of increasing, constant or decreasing returns to scale in multiple input and multiple output situations. The results are discussed and related not only to classical single output economics but also to more modern versions of economics which are identified with "contestable market theories."

Fuzzy Set Theory - and Its Applications

Abstract: Fuzzy Set Theory - And Its Applications, Third Edition is a textbook for courses in fuzzy set theory. It can also be used as an introduction to the subject. The character of a textbook is balanced with the dynamic nature of the research in the field by including many useful references to develop a deeper understanding among interested readers. The book updates the research agenda (which has witnessed profound and startling advances since its inception some 30 years ago) with chapters on possibility theory, fuzzy logic and approximate reasoning, expert systems, fuzzy control, fuzzy data analysis, decision making and fuzzy set models in operations research. All chapters have been updated. Exercises are included.

Regression Diagnostics: Identifying Influential Data and Sources of Collinearity

Abstract: 1. Introduction and Overview. 2. Detecting Influential Observations and Outliers. 3. Detecting and Assessing Collinearity. 4. Applications and Remedies. 5. Research Issues and Directions for Extensions. Bibliography. Author Index. Subject Index.

Data Envelopment Analysis: A Comprehensive Text with Models, Applications, References and DEA-Solver Software

Abstract: List of Tables. List of Figures. Preface. 1. General Discussion. 2. The Basic CCR Model. 3. The CCR Model and Production Correspondence. 4. Alternative DEA Models. 5. Returns to Scale. 6. Models with Restricted Multipliers. 7. Discretionary, Non-Discretionary and Categorical Variables. 8. Allocation Models. 9. Data Variations. Appendices. Index.