Showing papers by "William W. Cooper published in 1976"

A theorem on homogeneous functions and extended Cobb-Douglas forms.

Abstract: A form for homogeneous functions is presented which shows them to be a very simple extension of the wellknown Cobb-Douglas functions with similar properties in production (and distribution) economics. This form thus suggests new possibilities for interpreting a wide variety of empirical and theoretical results in economics; it also provides contact with developments in other fields, such as information theory and geometric programming.

A Multi-Objective Model for Planning Equal Employment Opportunities.

Abstract: Previous manpower planning models — e.g., in the OCMM series — have utilized multi-period Markoff processes embedded in goal programming (multiple objective) models. These are here extended to Equal Employment Opportunity plans directed to changing the mix of employees over time. At each point in the planning interval, the organization is taken as given, e.g., in terms of the probabilities for promotion, transfer, etc., When formulating manpower programs. Over time, however, these organization processes are submitted to planned changes which alter the probabilities of occurrence for these events. The Merit Promotion System is preserved and other controls are also imposed explicitly for the exercise of managerial discretion. The focus here is on an ordinary (absolute value) formulation of objectives and a numerical illustration is supplied with differing weights for each of the indicated classes of objectives. Other types of objectives are briefly discussed, along with different approaches to problems of validation and, subsequently, implementation in a U.S. Navy context.

A futurological justification for historical cost and multi-dimensional accounting

Abstract: Futurology, interpreted as a forecast or, even better, as projections intended to influence the future, is applied to justify retention of historical costs in the context of proposed multidimensional accounting extensions for business, government and national goals accounting. Budgetary disclosures supported by opportunity costs and tradeoffs are also examined via multiple-objective models of goal programming varieties. Independent audit and attest is suggested not only for the mathematical model but also for managerial explanations of subsequent discrepancies from plans in each pertinent dimension.

Communication to the Editor---The Cluster Plan for Desegregating Public Schools, or a Little Less Weltanschauung, Please, for Some More Adequate Descriptions

Abstract: It may not be possible to be wholly objective, as Messrs. Stimson and Thompson among others assert see [Stimson, D. H., R. P. Thompson. 1975. The importance of 'Weltanschauung' in Operations Research: The case of the school busing problem. Management Sci.21 10, June 1123--1132.]. Nevertheless, one should be as objective as possible in OR, or any other science, and this carries with it the concomitant duty of accurate and adequate descriptions---including descriptions of work by others to the extent that it may be pertinent.