Optimera Constraint Optimization Solver

Abstract

Businesses, organizations and firms all around the world face a lot of problems that can be modelled and solved using constraint optimization [1-3] to determine the outcome of the problem [22]. Given a transformation between input and output values, described by a mathematical function f, optimization deals with generating and selecting a best solution from some set of available alternatives, by systematically choosing input values from within an allowed set, computing the output of the function, and recording the best output values found during the process. For example, the inputs can be design parameters of a motor and the output can be the power consumption. Solving these problems optimally is a hassle that requires technical knowledge of optimization techniques [40]. These techniques mathematically involve complex algorithms [44], variables and functions that are not a cup of tea for most parties trying to solve their problem. In our Final Year Project, we are developing a .NET application, by the name of Optimera, with an intuitive user-friendly interface that provides optimal solution for all kinds of resource allocation linear programming problems that academic, government and business entities face every day. Unlike most other scheduling applications, Optimera will not solely serve as a tool to support a particular organization's scheduling and resource allocation process. Instead, it shall focus on the core challenges of resource allocation and provide a user-centric solution to those. Hence, it can be deployed in any organization for any scheduling and resource allocation from allocation of students according to an examination seating plan to allocation in elections. With Optimera you can easily import data from external systems and export your completed results back again giving you the freedom to schedule the way you want.