Visualizing Alternative Models and their Objective Functions in the Solution of Optimal Location Problems

Abstract

This paper presents an argument for introducing location-allocation theory to advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students in a simplified continuous space environment that is relatively free of the distorting effects of networks and other aspects of more differentiated “real-world” environments. This approach can enable instructors to reinforce visually the role of different models and their objective functions. In this simplified setting, students can initially concentrate on the link between these mathematical programming techniques and the spatial nature of the problems being solved. In a short time, students can move into more advanced methods in more differentiated environments. A freeware program entitled NEWLAP was developed to facilitate this approach. This software features a variety of spatial allocation models and their associated constraints that can be applied on both the plane and the sphere. This paper outlines how this software can be used to show alternative solutions using different models on the same data set as well as application of the software in a “real world” problem on a global scale.

Key Words:

• location-allocation
• location analysis
• modeling