Modeling Languages Versus Matrix Generators for Linear Programming

Abstract

Linear optmnzation problems (linear programs) are expressed In one kind of form for human modelers, but In a quite different form for computer algorithms. Translation from the modeler's form to the algonthm's form ISthus an unavoidable task in linear programmmg. Traditionally, this task of translation has been divided between human and computer, through the writing of computer programs known as matrix generators An alternative approach leaves almost all of the work of translation to the computer. Central to such an approach IS a computer-readable modeling language that expresses a linear program in much the same way that a modeler does It ISargued that modehng languages should lead to more reliable apphcatron of hnear programming at lower overall cost. © 1983, ACM. All rights reserved.