The Encyclopedia of Operations Research & Management Science is an online edition of the reference work of the same name, which provides an overview of the concepts and methodologies that combine to form the fields of operations research and management science (OR/MS). Contained here are more than 228 separate entries showing how OR/MS applies scientific principles to decision making, and illustrating the relationship of OR/MS to mathematics, computer science and information processing. The entries give a history of the topic and describe relevant applications. Contemporary and future trends are also discussed and references provided.
Both editors are well respected in their fields, which gives this work authority. Carl M. Harris, who died in 2000, was BDM International Professor of Operations Research and the founding chair of the Systems Engineering and Operations Research Department in the School of Information Technology and Engineering at George Mason University. Saul I. Gass is currently Professor of Management Science and Statistics at the College of Business and Management, University of Maryland. His research interests include linear programming, large scale systems, model validation and evaluation, game theory, multi‐objective decision analysis, and the application of operations research methodologies. An international panel of academics and practitioners contributes articles. This reference work is updated continuously throughout the year.
The user interface is visually appealing and extremely easy to use. The initial screen provides a brief overview of the encyclopedia and options to search the content or link to an advanced search screen. The encyclopedia also provides the option of browsing by clicking on a letter of the alphabet. Given these straightforward choices, training for library users should be minimal. Unlike its paper counterpart, the online version provides internal links to figures, equations, tables, other entries, and references at the end of each entry. Instead of rifling through pages of the print version, users will be pleased to find the additional information just a click away. There are several other useful features particular to the electronic version, such as keyword and author searching for full‐text articles and the ability to bookmark entries of interest. Entries can also be e‐mailed to other subscribers.
The pricing structure includes a one‐time base fee and an annual update fee for continuing access. The annual update fee is 10 per cent of the base price and includes access to existing content, content updates, customer service and general site maintenance. Should an institution decide to not pay the annual fee, an archival copy on CD or DVD will be provided.
This product should be considered a basic necessity for university and special libraries whose patrons are involved in operations research and management sciences.
