Using Genetic Algorithms in Integer Programming for Decision Support

Abstract

Genetic Algorithms is a new developed quantitative method used in management decision support; it's an Artificial intelligence technique that simulates scientific explanations in genetics and natural evolution for getting an optimal solution population. Thus this study aims to recognize Genetic Algorithms including: definition, properties, basic elements and steps. Then we try to employ it in practical study. A local Mill shapes a suitable case to use Genetic Algorithms in Integer Programming as one of its application forms. After using Evolver software, and making a comparison with Branch and Bound method, we have got results around this case. At last we have concluded the efficiency of Genetic Algorithms in Integer Programming, and its superiority concerning characteristics, it also deserves to be used in more complicated problems and when usual methods fail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]