Discrete optimization via simulation

Abstract

This chapter describes tools and techniques that are useful for optimization via simulation—maximizing or minimizing the expected value of a performance measure of a stochastic simulation—when the decision variables are discrete. Ranking and selection, globally and locally convergent random search and ordinal optimization are covered, along with a collection of “enhancements” that may be applied to many different discrete optimization via simulation algorithms. We also provide strategies for using commercial solvers.