Introduction to Combinatorial Optimization

Combinatorial optimization is a popular course at the upper undergraduate/graduate levels in computer science, industrial engineering, and business management. This textbook provides a step-by-step approach for the student to become proficient in solving combinatorial optimization problems, with applications and problems considered via recent technology developments. It includes common problems, key algorithms, exercises, graphics, and an extensive bibliography.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 402 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

Combinatorial optimization is a highly sought-after field of study at the upper undergraduate and graduate levels in computer science, industrial engineering, and business management. Its broad applications in these domains have contributed to its popularity. Numerous published textbooks have been utilized in teaching this course, and the authors have drawn from a wide range of resources in their own teaching experiences. This present text aims to fill a gap in the literature and is structured with a focus on methodology and relevant content. It provides a step-by-step approach for students to develop proficiency in solving combinatorial optimization problems.

Applications and problems are explored through recent technological advancements, including wireless communication, cloud computing, social networks, and machine learning, to name a few. The reader is guided to the forefronts of combinatorial optimization. Each chapter presents common problems such as minimum spanning tree, shortest path, maximum matching, network flow, set-cover, and key algorithms such as greedy algorithm, dynamic programming, augmenting path, and divide-and-conquer. Historical notes, ample exercises in each chapter, strategically placed graphics, and an extensive bibliography are among the textbook's notable features.

Combinatorial optimization is a versatile field with numerous practical applications across various industries. It involves solving complex problems by efficiently utilizing resources, such as time, space, or materials. The field has found applications in logistics, transportation, scheduling, network design, and data analysis, among others. By optimizing algorithms and models, combinatorial optimization can help organizations improve their efficiency, reduce costs, and make better decisions.

One of the key challenges in combinatorial optimization is the complexity of the problems. Many problems involve large sets of variables, constraints, and interactions, making them difficult to solve using traditional methods. This has led to the development of new algorithms and techniques, such as branch-and-bound, dynamic programming, and genetic algorithms, which are more efficient and effective in solving complex optimization problems.

In conclusion, combinatorial optimization is a fundamental field of study with wide applications in computer science, industrial engineering, and business management. Its popularity is attributed to its broad applications and the need for efficient solutions to complex problems. The field has seen significant advancements in algorithms and techniques, and continues to evolve as new technologies and challenges arise. By mastering combinatorial optimization, students and professionals can gain a competitive advantage in their respective fields and contribute to the development of innovative solutions to real-world problems.

Weight: 636g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031116841
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022