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What Must I Do to Use a Solver?
To use a solver, you must build a model
that specifies:
 | The resources to be used, using decision
variables, |
| The limits on
resource usage, called constraints, and |
| The measure to optimize,
called the objective. |
The solver will find values for the decision
variables that satisfy the constraints while optimizing (maximizing
or minimizing) the objective.
Using Spreadsheets. Spreadsheets such as Microsoft Excel provide a
convenient way to build such a model. Anyone who has used a
spreadsheet is already familiar with the process: Cells on a
worksheet can hold numbers, labels, or formulas that calculate new
values -- such as the objective of an optimization.
Constraints are simply limits (specified with <=, = or >=
relations) on formula cells. And the decision variables are
simply input cells containing numbers. Frontline's Premium
Solver products provide powerful tools for solving, or
optimizing, such models.
Using Custom Programs. Another way to build an optimization model is to
write code in a programming language such as Visual Basic or
C/C++. Instead of spreadsheet cells, variables or arrays in
the program hold the decision variables and calculate the
constraints and objective. Frontline's Solver SDK products provide equally powerful tools for solving, or optimizing,
models in this form.
The choice of approach is up to you.
Spreadsheets offer a quick way to build a model, and you can easily
explain the model and its results to other users who are usually spreadsheet-literate. Application programs in Visual Basic,
C/C++ or other languages may offer higher performance and may be
easier to distribute widely, within a company or to commercial
users. No matter which approach you choose, Frontline Systems'
Solver products provide the key optimization technology in an
easy-to-use, reliable form.
Next: How Do I Define a Model?
Back to Tutorial Start
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To Learn More:
For instant access to example models, full-text User Guides,
and to download free 15-day trial versions of our
software products whenever you're ready, you can register now. |
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| Our Premium Solver Platform
works with existing Excel Solver models, solves much larger problems up to hundreds of
times faster, and solves new kinds of problems via Evolutionary Solver.
Solver Engines plug into the Premium Solver Platform. |
| Solver
Platform SDK makes it easy to solve any type
or size of optimization problem in your Visual Basic,
VB.NET, C/C++, C#, Java, or MATLAB program. And
it's easy to deploy your application with our flexible
licensing for software vendors and corporate
developers. |
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