TIMS SINGAPORE 1995 PROGRAM

Monday 08:00-09:15

1) A Formula for the Geographical Distribution of Resources in the National Health Service, Peter Smith / Univ of York, Dept of Economics, Heslington, York, Y01 Sdd, Great Britain The UK National Health Service is one of the largest employers in the world, with an annual budget in 1993 of about 28 billion, or 5% of UK gross domestic product. Much of that budget is distributed to local health authorities, which purchase hospital and community services on behalf of patients in their locality. This paper reports the statistical methods used by a team from the University of York in developing a formula for distributing funds to English health authorities, and discusses some of the issues involved in securing implementation of the formula.

2) Establishing the Strong Disposability Assumption for Hospital Production, Vivian Valdmanis / Univ of Oklahoma, Dept of Health Admin & Policy, Oklahoma City, OK 73190, USA, Gary D. Ferrier / Univ of Arkansas, Dept of Economics, 402 Bus Admin Bldg, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA We explore the implications of payment sources on hospital productivity, and are interested in assessing the impact of certain payment mechanisms that do not cover the full costs of hospital care and leave the patient responsible for the balance. It is the nonpayment of this balance that leads to bad debt for the hospital. Hence, providing care to these types of patients may call into question whether provision of care is strongly disposable or if care that is partially paid for constitutes weak disposability. We use the output based technology via the DEA approach and apply this methodology to hospitals operating in 1993 in Oklahoma.

3) Evaluation of Physician Practice Behavior for Otitis Media, Yasar Ozcan / Virginia Commonwealth Univ, Dept of Health Admin, Box 980203, Richmond, VA 23298-0203, USA DEA was used to evaluate physician practice behavior for one of the most common childhood illnesses, otitis media with effusion (inflammation of middle ear). Approximately 350 primary care physicians who treated 100 or more cases of otitis media for Medicaid (public insurance program for the poor) population for the State of Virginia during 1993 was subject to the study. The cost of various practice patterns as well as treatment modalities describing the practice behavior will be discussed. Evaluations will be extended to compliance to published practice guidelines for otits media.

4) Validating Measurement of Hospital Performance, Thomas T.H. Wan / Medical College of Virginia, Dept of Health Admin, Richmond, VA 23298-0203, USA, John S.J. Chung / Medical College of Virginia, Dept of Health Admin, Richmond, VA 23298-0203, USA This is a study to assess the construct validity of multiple measures of hospital performance in terms of financial viability, productivity, and efficiency. A confirmatory factor analysis is used to identify the relevance of multiple performance indicators. In addition, a covariance structure model is formed to determine the relative contribution of each predictor variable in explaining the variation in hospital performance. Data used in this study are based on 100 community hospitals in Virginia. The results show that major domains of hospital performance are moderately correlated.

1) Tutorial:Simulation and Optimization Models for Fixed-Income Portfolio Management, Stavros A. Zenios / Univ of Penn, Wharton Sch - Oper & Info Mgt, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA We will review three generations of models for fixed-income portfolio management. We will start with portfolio immunization that dates back to the work of Reddington in the 1930's and found widespread use in the 1970's. We will then proceed to portfolio diversification that was motivated by Harry Markowitz's work in the 1950's and has been in widespread use in the 1990's. And finally we will introduce multi-period dynamic portfolio management techniques that are currently being developed in universities and research laboratories and used in a few select applications. Simulation models for data generation will also be discussed; applications of the techniques in industrial settings will also be presented.

1) Learning Effects of Knowledge-Based Technical Analysis Systems for Financial Planning, Tadashi Dohi / Hiroshima Univ, Dept of Ind & Sys Engr, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima724, Japan, Shunji Osaki / Hiroshima Univ, Dept of Indust & Sys Eng, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima724, Japan The fuzzy logic is often applicable to the chart technical analysis in practical financial dealing. In this paper, we summarize the fuzzy expert systems based on the well-known Granville's law and quantitatively evaluate the learning effect of knowledge-based technical analysis systems. Especially, we focus on the simple timing strategy to sell or buy a stock. Neural networks are used for accurate predictions of future stock prices. Finally, we show that the learning algorithm through the numerical examples can improve the system performance.

2) Determinants of the Conversion Ratio in a Convertible Bond, Jayaram Muthuswamy / Finance & Banking N U S, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Aaron Low / Finance & Banking, N U S, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Sudipto Sarkar / Finance & Banking, N U S, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore Convertible debt has attracted a good deal of research attention. But the question of how to determine the optimal conversion terms is unresolved. This paper uses a signalling model to endogenize the conversion terms in an asymmetric information setting. We derive an explicit solution for the optimal conversion ratio.

3) A Theory of IPO Pricing Using Tender Prices, Kian Guan Lim / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Edward H K Ng / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Finance & Banking, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore Initial public offerings are an integral part of market capitalization, and the pricing of such offerings has been theorized considerably. New methods of IPOs often bring new insights to existing theories. This paper studies a new form of IPO using French tenders, and proposes a partial adjustment theory to explain the trading price premium. An outcome of the model is that it allows for an explicit testing of informed investors' excess return such as implied in Rock's (1986) model.

4) Efficient Governance Structure of Initial Public Offerings: Case of the Taiwan Stock Market, Jungpao Kang / Not Available.

1) Routing in ATM Networks: A Comparative Study, Hon-Wai Chu / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Elec & Electr Engr, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Danny H K Tsang / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Elec & Electr Engr, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong We address the problem of routing in ATM networks. We start with a brief survey of several proposed routing schemes in the literatures and we compare the performance of these schemes. We also propose a Markov decision process (MDP) based algorithm for routing in ATM networks with heterogeneous service classes. Simulation results and appropriate comparisons are presented.

2) Traffic Control in a Three Stage Clos Network, Xiren Cao / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of E E E, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong A connection matrix is introduced to represent the status of a three-stage Clos network. A blocking coefficient is defined to measure the degree of the possibility of internal blocking for future calls. With this connection matrix, the dynamic blocking problem can be formulated as a standard Markov decision process problem; a sub-optimal strategy for the problem is proposed. Conditions for rearrangeable and strict-sense nonblocking are revisited.

3) A Fine Grained Analytic Ethernet Performance Model, Norman F. Schneidewind / Naval Postgraduate Sch, Code Sm/Ss, Monterey, CA 93943, USA An Ethernet performance model is presented that contains a complete formulation of simultaneous input and output bus delays, including the following delays: collisions and subsequent backoff, deferred transmission due to a busy channel, and transmission. This is a novel way of providing a level of detail and accuracy that other models of Ethernet performance do not provide.

4) Optimal Data Network Dimensioning with Delay Constraints Using Decomposition Techniques, Jerome Chifflet / C N E T - Sophia, P A A/O R E, 905, Rue A Einstein 06921, Sophia-Antipolis, France, Philippe Mahey / I S I M A, B P 125, Aubiere Cedex 63173, France We consider the design of packet-switched networks under delay constraints. It is a concave minimization problem with convex costs and very hard to solve even for medium-size networks. A two-phase method is analyzed and tested on small examples: in the first phase, a fixed-cost design problem is solved with individual delay bounds on each arc; in the second phase, a concave multicommodity flow problem is solved to adjust the arc capacities of the topology proposed in the precedent phase. The first problem is approximately solved by a dual ascent method which iteratively chooses the candidate paths between each origin-destination pair. Then, a separable Augmented Lagrangian technique based on the Proximal Decomposition method is used to solve the second problem for a local optimal routing on the given topology. The two phases may be combined in a Benders-like iterative procedure to solve the global delay-design problem, but we show on small examples that the two-phase method can give near optimal solutions with reasonable multi-path routing.

1) To Purchase or Pirate Software: An Empirical Study, Hsing Kenneth Cheng / College of William & Mary, Grad Sch of Bus, Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795, USA, Ronald R. Sims / College of William & Mary, Grad Sch of Bus, Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795, USA, Hildy Teegen / College of William & Mary, Grad Sch of Bus, Williamsburg, VA 23187-8795, USA This paper identifies and ranks the underlying motivations/reasons that people purchase as well as pirate software. This paper attempts to enrich the normative economic models of consumers' software purchase/pirate decisions by discovering the factors that affect their valuation of computer software and their cost components of pirating software.

2) A Comparative Study of the Performance of Cellular and Process Layout Using Personal Computer Simulation, Jae-Gon Yoon / Hyosung Women's Univ, Ha-Yang, Kyung-San, Kyung-Poolk, 713-702, Rep of Korea, Jin-Choon Lee / Kyong-Pook San-Up Univ, Ha-Yang, Kyung-San, Kyung-Pook, 713-701, Rep of Korea In this paper, we attempted to analyze the effects of introducing the cellular layout into the traditional flow line of an existing factory. We designed 3 layout structures by group technology and cluster analysis, and compared their performances using the personal computer simulation.

3) Multimedia Applications, J P Shim / Dept of Mgt & Info Systems, Mississippi State Univ, Mississippi State, MS 39762,

4) Personal Computers in Small Business Applications, Noel Addy / Mississippi State Univ, P O Box Ef, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA, Gilda M. Agacer / Mississippi State Univ, P O Box Ef, Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA We consider the use of personal computers for accounting systems in small businesses. Personal computers have the advantage of being inexpensive and reliable for data processing. Application programs have proliferated for accounting that use personal computers as platforms for running. Most programs are oriented toward small businesses; businesses under $50 million and fewer than 100 employees.

1) Scenario Analysis in the Foreign Debt Decision Support System, Deng Shuhui / Inst of Sys Sci, Academia Sinica, Beijing, 100080, P. R. China, Xu Shanying / Inst of Sys Sci, Academia Sinica, Beijing, 100080, P. R. China, Pan Guozheng / Inst of Sys Sci, Academia Sinica, Beijing, 100080, P. R. China The planning and management of foreign debt scale in the developing countries play an important role in their macroeconomic management. By adopting the method of scenario analysis, the system developed can carry out decision analysis according to the practical decision procedure. Through scenario analysis, the traditional decision-making procedure is simulated and formulated into the experence model; various decision-making models are also integrated.

2) DSS and Its Interface from the Viewpoint of Media, Wang Lin / Chinese Acad, Inst of Automation, P O Box 2728, Beijing, 100080, China From the viewpoint of DSS (or GDSS) as one kind of information transmission media, the design and comprehensive problems of it and its interface are analyzed. The different features of DSS (or GDSS) and its interface from media aspects such as means, range, techniques, effects of information transmission are given. The purpose is to find a new way to deal with the design problem and enhance its user friendliness.

3) A Development of DSS for the Estimate of the Plant Engineering Project, Sung Yong Lee / Nat'l Univ Chang Won, Ind Engr Dept, Kyung Nam, 641773, Korea, Duk Hee Moon / Nat'l Univ Chang Won, Indust Engr Dept, Kyung Nam, 641773, Korea, Jin Wook Kim / Nat'l Univ Chang Won, Indust Engr Dept, Kyung Nam, 641773, Korea, Kyu Sik Lee / Nat'l Univ Chang Won, Indust Engr Dept, Kyung Nam, 641773, Korea As a plant engineering company, providing the customer with the right estimate and delivery time of the project is very critical for the company to make profit. In this paper, we attempt to develop the DSS for top management to make the right decisions when negotiating.

4) Assessing the Quality of Institutional DSS, Radhika Santhanam / Florida Intl Univ, Col of Bus, Dept of D S I S, University Park, Miami, FL 33199, USA, Manoel Oliveira / Florida Intl Univ, Col of Bus, Dept of D S I S, University Park, Miami, FL 33199, USA Effectively assessing DSS quality has long been a difficult challenge to developers and users. Despite the difficulty, the need to justify substantial investments in DSS projects motivates academics and practitioners alike to continuously attempt to improve quality assessment procedures and methods. A discussion and comparison of existing methods to assess DSS quality is presented, followed by a proposal for the use of the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method as a more viable alternative for institutional DSS quality assessment. A case study is used to demonstrate the use of AHP for institutional DSS quality assessment in practice.

5) A Decision Support System for Distributed Problem Solving, Talluru Lakshminarayana Rao / Penn State Univ, The Behrend College, Erie, PA 16563-1400, USA Problem solving process is carried out in phases, requiring multiple experts. The phases include problem understanding, structuring, model selection, model formulation, solution generation, and solution validation. The problem solving process requires collaboration from multiple experts. This paper proposes a framework for designing and developing a decision support system (DSS) for distributed problem solving. The paper discusses the design issues, collaboration mechanisms, and the development issues.

1) A Map Based Interface to Distribution Planning, S. Sadagopan / Indian Inst of Tech, I.M.E. Department, I.I.T. P.O., Kanpur, 208016, India A synergy between Operations Research and Geographic Information System is used to develop an innovative map interface to distribution problems for logistics support. Extensions to other network flow problems are also outlined.

2) An Empirical Study of IT in the Indian Service Sector, Shivraj Kanungo / Indian Inst of Tech, Dept of Mgt Studies, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110016, India This study focusses on IT in the service sector to identify planning and usage characteristics. In-depth structured interviews were conducted with MIS managers in the banking sector, railways, airlines, hospitals and hotels. The paper concludes by proposing a strategy for responding to critical issues in IT and resolving paradoxes based on context sensitive approaches.

3) IT Applications in the Service Sector - The Singapore Experience, K.V. Ramani / Indian Inst of Mgmt, Ahmedabad 380 015, Gujarat, India, Francis Parvi / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, Singapore 0511, Singapore In this paper, we describe the experience of a few organizations in Singapore which have benefitted extensively by using IT to improve their service level and quality. Case studies on IT Innovations in DBS bank, Business Process-Reengineering at YCH Distripark and Open systems at DHL will be discussed.

1) The Overseas Branch Office Site Selection Process Of Taiwan Banks, S.I. Ivan Su / Soochow Univ, Dept of Bus. Adm., No. 56, Sect. 1, Kuei Yang Str, Taipei, Taiwan ROC, Michael M.K. Lin / Central Bank of China, 9F. No. 2 Sec 1 Roosevelt Rd, Taipei, Taiwan ROC We have reviewed the overseas branch office site selection process of Taiwan Banks. Due to the review result, we are motivated to develop a scientific approach to handle the site selection problem for Taiwan Banks. Analytic Hierarchy Process is applied in the proposed site selection model. The modelling result will be reported.

2) Verbal Versus Numerical Judgements in Analytic Hierarchy Process, K R E Huizingh / Univ of Groingen, Dept of Bus Admn, P O Box 800, 9700 Av Groningen, Holland, H.C.J. Vrolijk / Univ of Groningen, Dept of Bus Admin, P O Box 800, 9700 Av Groningen, Holland In A H P pairwise comparisons are made verbally or numerically. To compute the preferences, A H P translates all verbal comparisons into numerical judgements. In our study we investigated whether the mode of comparing affects the outcome of the A H P analysis. The hypotheses were tested in a laboratory study with 180 participants.

3) Implementing Concurrent Engineering: A Case Study for Hong Kong Using AHP, V M Rao Tummala / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Mfg Engr Dept, Kowloon, Hong Kong, K.S. Chin / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Av, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, Ho Siu Hang / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Av, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong An integrated approach based on the concurrent engineering (CE) in the development of new products is showing impressive results to achieve the goal of reducing the cycle time to market to serve the needs of global competition. In this paper, an attempt is made to apply AHP to evaluate the costs and benefits in implementing CE among Hong Kong industries.

1) Demographic and Data Issues in Projecting HIV/AIDS Impacts, 1995-2000, Carl Harris / George Mason Univ, Dept of Operations Research &, Engineering (S&T 2/11

1), Fairfax, VA 22030, USA, Edward Rattner / George Mason Univ, Dept of Operations Research &, Engineering (S&T 2/11

1), Fairfax, VA 22030, USA, Michael Halpern / Battelle Memorial Inst, Arlington, VA 22201, USA This paper begins with an assessment of the potential impact of changing demographic patterns on the public assessment of the course of the epidemic. Additional thoughts are then offered on the underestimation of HIV/AIDS incidence and prevalence resulting from likely misinterpretations of AIDS case data.

2) A LP Model for Planning Home Assistance to AIDS Patients, Vanda De Angelis / Univ LA Sapienza, P Le Aldo Moro, 5 Rome 00185, Italy, Giuseppe Milanese / Univ Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy A goal linear programming model has been formulated to help planning home care assistance to AIDS patients in the city of Rome. Patients have been classified according to the level of needs and passages from a level of need to another have been modeled by means of a semi-Markovian model. The use of resources for every mode of assistance has been quantified in order to build the constraints.

1) Optimal Operating Policies for a Bottleneck Facility with Repairable Jobs, Kut So / Univ of California, Grad Sch of Mgmt, Irvine, CA 92717, USA, Christopher S. Tang / U C L A, Grad Sch of Mgmt, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA We present a model of a bottleneck facility that processes jobs in batches. Each processed batch is classified as good, repairable, or nonrepairable. A repairable batch can be repaired using the same facility. We evaluate the impact of batch sizes, yield, and switch-over cost on the optimal operating policy.

2) Order-Fill-Rate vs. Item-Fill-Rate in a Multi-Item Inventory Model, Jing-Sheng Song / Univ of California, Grad Sch of Mgt, Irvine, CA 92717, USA A customer order to a multi-item inventory system typically consists of several different items. The probability of satisfying an arbitrary demand immediately (order fill rate) is an important measure of customer satisfaction in industry. We present a simple model to explore the value of using order-fill-rate as a performance measure, as opposed to item-based approach in standard models.

3) Lot Sizing in MRP Systems, D.W. Cheng / New York Univ, Dept of Statistics & O R, 40 W. 4th St.,704 Tisch Hall, New York, NY 10012, USA, John A. Buzacott / York Univ, Fac of Admin Stud, 4700 Keele St, North York, Ontario, Canada M3J 1P3 MRP systems often use either fixed order quantity (FOQ) or period order quantity (POQ) lotsizing rules. Conventional wisdom prefers POQ to FOQ, but using stochastic comparisons it is shown that the adverse effects of variable lot sizes with POQ can counteract the benefits of its more uniform lot release intervals.

4) Efficient Evaluation and Optimization Methods for Stochastic Economic Lot Scheduling Problems, Ziv Katalan / Univ of Penn, The Wharton School, 1314 Steinberg-Dietrich Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6366, USA, Awi Federgruen / Columbia Univ, Grad School of Business, New York, NY 10027, USA We discuss a class of production settings where a common production facility is shared by several products with random demand processes, production and setup times (Stochastic ELSP). We describe efficient evaluation & optimization methods for a number of simple but rich and effective classes of production/inventory strategies. We also characterize the impact of setup times on the performance of such systems as well as the impact of reductions of demand & production time uncertainty.

1) Foundations of Competitive Manufacturing in the High Technology Industry: An Empirical Investigation, Naren Agrawal / Santa Clara Univ, D I S Dept, Santa Clara, CA 95053, USA, S Andrew Starbird / Santa Clara Univ, Institute of Agri Bus, Santa Clara, CA 95053, USA We discuss results of a survey of executives from the high technology industry. Our research provides empirical evidence to test a number of theories/hypotheses that have been suggested by researchers to explain manufacturing competitiveness. We discuss the linkages between manufacturing policies and measures of company performance.

2) Coordination and Load Time Management: Implications for the Indian Shoe (Leather) Industry, Trilochan Sastry / Indian Inst of Mgt, Ahmedabad, India, Pankaj Chandra / Mc Gill Univ, Faculty of Management, 1001 Sherbrooke St. W, Montreal, Que, H3A 1G5, Canada The leather shoe industry is a major export earner for India. In this paper we conduct an exploratory study to evaluate the impact of coordination in the supply chain in this industry on lead time and the volume of exports.

3) Performance Evaluation of Telecom Systems: A Comparative Analysis, Rohit Bhatnagar / Nanyang Tech Univ, Sch of Account & Busin Admin, Nanyang Av, Singapore, 2263, Singapore Telecom systems in different countries are characterized by a heterogeneity of technology mix. A comparative analysis of system performance across countries is useful as it facilitates future capital investment decisions. We present a model for the above analysis with a focus on operational performance measures.

4) Technology, Practices and Competitiveness in the Primary Textile Industry: A Multi Nation Study, Pankaj Chandra / Mc Gill Univ, Faculty of Management, 1001 Sherbrooke St. W, Montreal, Que, H3A 1G5, Canada, Wang Xing Ming / People's Univ, Dept of Ind Econ, Beijing, China, P.R. Shukla / Indian Inst of Mgt, Vastrapur, Ahmedabad, 380 015, India In this research we evaluate the competitiveness of the primary textile industry in three countries - Canada, China and India - in terms of technological infrastructure, manufacturing and labour practices, and operational performance. We discuss results from an empirical study of over 50 primary textile plants in each country.

5) Machine Investment in Multi-Product Manufacturing, S. Rajagopalan / Univ of Southern California, Sch of Business Admin, Info & Oper Mgt Dept, Los Angeles, CA 90089-1421, USA, Steven Yu / Univ of Southern California, Sch of Bus Admin, Info & Oper Mgt Dept, Los Angeles, CA 90089-1421, USA We present a model and solution procedures for deciding the machines to be purchased and the proportion of demand of various products to be assigned to the machines. We consider investment costs, operational costs as well as lead time (congestion) effects. A real application will also be discussed.

1) A Modified (r,Q) System for JIT Production, Abraham Mehrez / Kent State Univ, Bus Admin Bldg, Rm 558, Kent, OH 44242, USA, Henry Co / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Dec Sci, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, B Eddy Patuwo / Kent State Univ, Grad School of Bus, Kent, OH 44242, USA This paper examines a modified (r,Q) control system. Within a time window (t, t+L], where L is the lead time and for any t, the maximum number of demand sent to the jobshop is b, and the remainder of the demand is sent to the FMC.

2) System Cooperation with Quantity Discount Considerations, Susan Xiaotian Li / Adelphi Univ, School of Mgmt & Business, Garden City, NY 11554, USA This study deals with a situation where the buyer has a monopolistic position, and examines the issues and advantages of cooperation in a buyer-seller system. Game theory forms the foundation for our analysis of these issues. The similarity and differences between our model and those in the literature are discussed.

3) Stock Valuation Under JIT Production, Henry Co / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Dec Sci, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Ameen Talib / Natl Univ of Singapore, Singapore, 0511, Singapore

4) Basic Beliefs: A Foundation for Kaizen, Kozo Saito / Not Available.

5) Coping with Uncertainty in Kanban-Controlled Production Systems, Ali Moosa Sharaf / Natl Univ of Singapore, Singapore, 0511, Singapore It is a known fact that Toyota uses a formula equivalent to the conventional practice of hedging and overplanning. The implied objective is to balance the cost of backordering and the cost of carrying inventory. This paper examines the conditions under which this simple buffering strategy can be very close to the theoretical optimum.

1) Palletisation Efficiency as a Criterion for Production Design, E. E. Bischoff / Univ of Wales, European Bus Mgt Sch, Singleton Park, Swansea, Sa2 8Pp, United Kingdom The size and shape of a product and the packing units used for its transportation have important implications for the efficiency with which a pallet based distribution system can operate. This paper demonstrates how considerations relating to palletisation efficiency may be taken into account in the product/packaging design process.

2) Incorporation Weight Considerations into a Container Loading Algorithm, M. Ratcliff / Univ of Wales, Euro Bus Mgmt Sch, Singleton Park, Swansea Sa2 8Pp, U K The weight and fragility aspects of a box, despite being highly significant in practice, are features that are lacking in many of the current three-dimensional container loading methodologies. This paper describes how such aspects can be incorporated into a layering approach, whilst maintaining the objective of efficient volume utilisation.

3) Decompostition Algorithms for the Integer One-Dimensional Cutting Stock Problem, T. Gau / Tech Univ, Braunschweig, D-38092 Braunschweig, Germany Some decompostition algorithms will be presented, which first of all generate an optimal solution to the relaxed problem by column generation followed by special rounding techniques and leading to a decomposition of the problem. This procedure leads to significant reductions in solution complexity while optimality can be proven for most problems.

1) When Will Commuters Switch to Public Transit?: The Impact of User Charges on Commuter Mode Choice, Emine Sarigollu / McGill Univ, Fac of Mgmt, 1001 Sherbrooke St. West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3Z 1J9, Gordon Ewing / McGill Univ, Dept of Geography, 1001 Sherbrooke St West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3Z 1J9 We analyze commuters' mode choices among three alternatives; drive alone, share a ride and public transit under hypothetical scenarios involving various levels of user charges (road pricing and fuel prices). Choice scenarios were customized for each respondent and were generated by a conjoint design. 850 Montreal commuters participated in the study.

2) Do Household Scanner Panels Provided "Representative" Effects of Marketing Variables?, Sachin Gupta / Northwestern Univ, Kellogg Grad School of Mgmt, Leverone Hall, Evanston, IL 60208, USA, Pradeep K. Chintagunta / Cornell Univ, Johnson Grad School of Mgmt, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA, Anil Kaul / Cornell Univ, Johnson Grad Sch of Mgmt, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA, Dick R. Wittink / Cornell Univ, Johnson Grad Sch of Mgmt, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA In this paper we investigate the concern that household scanner panel data may not be representative. To do so we compare estimated price and promotional elasticities obtained from equivalent models estimated on household data and store data for two product categories.

3) A Dynamic Model of Consideration Set and Brand Choice, Jeongwen Chiang / Washington Univ, Olin Business School, Box 1133, One Brookings Dr, St Louis, MO 63130-4899, USA, Chakravarthi Narasimhan / Washington Univ, John M. Olin Sch of Bus, Box 1133, One Brookings Dr, St Louis, MO 63130-4899, USA In this paper we propose a dynamic model of consideration set and brand choice and calibrate our model using scanner/panel data. We explore the differential impact of brand advertising, display, and promotion on consideration set and brand choice and offer implications for promotional strategies.

1) Neural Logic Network for Bond Trading, Tong-Seng Quah / Natl Univ of Singapore, Inst of Sys Sci, Heng Mui Keng Terrace, Singapore 0511, Singapore, Chew-Lim Tan / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Info Sys & Comp Sci, Lower Kent Ridge Rd, Singapore 0511, Singapore, Hoon-Heng Teh / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Inst of Sys Sci, Heng Mui Keng Terrace, Singapore 0511, Singapore This paper reports an ongoing research utilizing Neural Logic Network for expert system inferences. Knowledge solicited from an experience trader on U.S. future bond was entered via rule editor. Duality of Neural Logic Network representation enables the rules to be interpreted into network weights, which lends the knowledge base for refinement through neural learning. The resulting system gives good predictions on bond prices.

2) Using Artificial Neural Networks as a Financial Trading Tool, Clarence N. W. Tan / Bond Univ, Robina, Queensland, 4229, Australia This paper discusses the methodology used in applying artificial neural networks to financial trading. Some trading simulation examples in the foreign exchange market will be discussed. The simulations take into account the financial transaction costs. The paper will compare the viability of using artificial neural networks as opposed to the efficient market hypothesis (EMII) strategy of buy/sell and hold. It will show that time arbitrage opportunities can be exploited by utilizing artificial neural networks in some financial markets.

3) Mixture Density in Financial Time Series Forecasting, Ho-Chung Lui / Inst of Systems Science, N U S, Heng Mui Keng Terrace, Kent Ridge 0511, Singapore We present a new approach to do financial time series forecasting. It is based on a probabilistic inference model whereby the model is constructed using Gaussian mixture density. Because of the probabalistic formulation, it has many useful properties unfound in other traditional approaches. Experimental results will be presented to demonstrate the usefulness of this approach.

4) Neural Networks with Error Feedback Terms for Financial Time Series Modelling, A N Burgess / London Business School, Dept of Decision Science, London, Nw1 4Sa, England, A N Bunn / London Business School, Dept of Decision Science, London, Nw1 4Sa, England, A N Refenes / London Business School, Dept of Decision Science, London, Nw1 4Sa, England We propose an extension to neural network time-series modelling methodology which is particularly appropriate for applications in the financial domain. We advocate the use of error feedback terms as a means of I) ameliorating the effects of nonstationarity and of II) more accurately modelling processes which are partly or wholly "moving average" in nature (i.e. where new terms are related to past "shocks" or unpredictable events) rather than purely auto-regressive (where new values are related to both the predictable and the unpredictable components of previous values).

5) The Predictability of Future Prices: Empirical Evidence on Copper, Oil and Gold, Gonzalo Cortazar / Univ Catolica de Chile, Ingenieria, Avda Vicuna Mackenna, Santiago, 4860, Chile, Benjamin Gareca / Universidad Catolica de Chile, Ingenieria, Avda. Vicuna Mackenna, Santiago, 4860, Chile The eventual predictability of prices is a major issue in financial economics research. Several procedures have been proposed for testing the amount of predictability specific price series exhibit. We present empirical results of the major tests for copper, oil and gold future prices.

1) Multi-objective Design and Optimization of Discrete Event Dynamic Systems, Leyuan Shi / Univ of Wisconsin - Madison, Dept of Ind Engr, 1513 Univ Av, Madison, WI 53706, USA Many practical systems such as flexible manufacturing systems, production assembly lines, communication networks, and computer systems can be modeled as Discrete Event Dynamic Systems (DEDS). Since such systems are becoming more widespread as a result of modern technological advances, it is important to have the methodology for design and optimization of these systems. In this paper, we provide a formal foundation for the multi-objective design and optimization of DEDS. The methodology involves using Utility Theory, Optimization, and Gradient Estimation in simulation.

2) Allocating Scarce Track Capacity Through Decomposition, Per Olov Lindberg / K T H, Dept of Math, Stockholm S-10044, Sweden, U. Brannlund / K T H, Dept of Math, Stockholm S-10044, Sweden, Andreas Nou / K T H, Dept of Math, Stockholm 10044, Sweden, J.E. Nilsson / C T S, Box 10044, 78110 Borlange, Sweden We consider the problem to allocate scarce track capacity between trains competing for capacity. Decomposing the problem through Lagrangean relazation, one gets subproblems solvable by Dynamic Programming. For a realistic example, this gives rise to a dual problem with 40,000 variables which is solved close to optimality by special techniques.

3) Algorithms for Network Piecewise-Linear Programmes: A Comparative Study, Fernando Marins / Feg-Unesp, Dpd/Ged/Unesp, Caiza Postal 205, Guaratinguesta, Sp 12500-000, Brazil, Edson Senne / Feg/Unesp, Dma/Feg/Unesp, Caixa Postal 205, Guaratingucta, Sp 12500-000, Brazil, Kenneth Darby-Dowman / Brunel Univ, Dept of Math And Statistics, Uxbridge U B 8 3 P H, U K, Clovis Perin / Imecc/Unicamp, Caixa Postal 205, Campinas, Sp 13081-970, Brazil This paper presents four specialized algorithms for Network Piecewise-Linear Programs and a study of the relative effectiveness of them. A statistically designed experiment was utilized to perform a computational comparison among the algorithms. Results and conclusions on the performance of the algorithms are reported.

4) Solving Large and Complex Real-World Problems, Shu Chen Li / I B M Corp, Mail Station 514, 522 South Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, USA, Dan Dangat / I B M Corp, Mgt Tech Consulting, 44 South Broadway, White Plains, NY 10601, USA, Anand Gokhale / I B M Corp, Mgt Tech Consulting, 44 South Broadway, White Plains, NY 10601, USA, Michael R. Kuehn / Miller Brewing Co, 3939 W Highland Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA, Arthur R Hansen / Miller Brewing Co, 3939 W Highland Blvd, Wilmaukee, WI 53201, USA, David L Linkin / Chesapeake Dec Sci Inc, 200 South St, New Providence, NJ 07974, USA, Thomas E. Baker / Chesapeake Dec Sci Inc, 200 South St, New Providence, NJ 07974, USA As a multi-functional team, the authors have applied mathematical modeling techniques to real-world complex business environments. These models normally are very large, complex, and time consuming to solve by current computer technologies. The authors will discuss the decomposition and aggregation techniques used to solve such problems. Three applications implemented at Miller Brewing Company will be discussed. Two are least cost optimization models involving production and distribution, and one is used to select optimum plant-to-distributor shipping assignments.

1) On Scheduling Problems That Can Be Modelled as a Solvable TSP, J A A Van Der Veen / Nijenrode Univ, Straatweg 25, 3627 Bg Breukelen, Netherlands It is well-known that some Machine Scheduling Problems can be reformulated as a Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP). As a rule, the distance matrix of the TSP is determined from the data of the scheduling problem. We will consider cases in which this leads to TSPs that are polynomially solvable.

2) A Simplical Algorithm for Testing Integer Property of Polytope, Zaifu Yang / Tilburg Univ, Dept of Econometrics, P.O. Box 90153, 5000 Le Tilburg, The Netherlands

3) Analysis of Classes of Heuristics for Scheduling Two-Stage Flow Shop with Parallel Machines at One Stage, Bo Chen / Univ of Warwick, Warwick Bus Sch, Coventry C V 4 7 A L, U K This paper addresses two-stage flow shop scheduling with parallel machines at one stage. Some efficient heuristics have been proposed in the literature for finding a minimum makespan schedule which is strongly NP-hard. We enrich the set of heuristics by introducing a few classes of heuristics, and show that the existing heuristics can be put into this classification scheme. Furthermore, we give a complete theoretical analysis of the worst-case performance of the classes.

4) A New Facet Class & A Polyhedral Method for the 3-Index Assignment Problem, Geena Gwan / Univ of Western Sydney, Dept of Math, P O Box 10, Kingswood 2747, Australia Further to Balas's work, a new class of facet defining inequalities is introduced. Also a polyhedral procedure for solving the 3-index assignment problem is constructed.

5) Two-Machine No-Wait Flow Shop Scheduling with Missing Operations, Jatinder N D Gupta / Ball State Univ, Dept of Mgt, Muncie, IN 47306, USA, C.N. Potts / Univ of Southampton, Fac of Mathematical Sciences, Southhampton, So9 5Nh, United Kingdom, C.A. Glass / Univ of Southampton, Fac of Mathematical Sciences, Southhampton, So9 5Nh, United Kingdom Heuristic algorithms are developed for the two-machine no-wait flow shop scheduling problem where some jobs require processing on the first machine only. Our main result is an O(n log n) approximation algorithm which generates a schedule with makespan no more than 4/3 times that of an optimal schedule.

1) International Competitiveness and the Management of Technology, Tarek Khalil / Univ of Miami, Dept of Ind Eng, Coral Gables, FL 33124-2344, USA International competitiveness is dependent upon nations' abilities to effectively manage their technological resources and to succeed in marketing globally. During the 2nd Intl. Conf. on Management of Technology held in 1990 in Miami, Bberman and Khalil conducted a survey to assess development in US technological competitiveness. Several revealing facts and opinions emerged. The survey was repeated in 1994, changes were noted, and the results of the original and new survey will be reviewed.

2) Designing and Implementing a Technology Management Program in a New University: A Brazilian Experience, Luiz F.A.M. Gomes / Univ Federal Fluminese, Dept of Production Eng, Rua Passa Da Patria 156, Rio de Janeiro, 24210-240, Brazil This paper describes the author's experience with launching the Production Engineering Program (PEP) of the Northern Rio de Janeiro State Univ., founded in 1993. Located north of the state of Rio de Janeiro, the area has economically stagnated for decades, and creating this new university has aimed at the promotion and spread of socioeconomical development through R & D. The PEP has therefore a strong technology management orientation and is based on regional need as well as on developing and applying advanced resources.

3) Engineering and Technology Management: Educational Directions, Dundar F Kocaoglu / Portland State Univ, Eng Mgt Program, Sch of Eng & Applied Sci, Portland, OR 97207-0751, USA, Fernando E. Rivera / Portland State Univ, Portland, Or, USA Educational programs in Engineering & Technology Management are rapidly growing; degree granting programs are doubling every four years. Growth was initially an Engineering School phenomenon and now has spread to Business Schools. This paper is based on a worldwide study on the characteristics and strategic directions of educational programs in Engineering and Technology management. It is the fifth of a series of longitudinal studies. The results will be presented and the emerging strategic issues will be discussed.

1) Development and Evaluation of a Model of Sustainable Regional Development, Swaminathan Sankaran / Univ of Regina, Fac of Admin, Regina, Sk, Canada S4S 0A2, T. Viraraghavan / Univ of Regina, Fac of Eng, Regina, Sk, Canada S4S 0A2 In this paper, we develop and use a model from ecological economics to analyse regional system development in Western Canada. We explore the roles played by energy resources and other renewable and non-renewable resources including agriculture and water resources, by industrial and environmental policies and by trade in the wider context.

2) Portfolio Analysis for Energy Exploration and Development Projects, David J. Robb / Univ of Auckland, M S I S Dept, Private Bag 92 019, Auckland, New Zealand Energy companies engaged in exploration and development must determine a portfolio of projects to be undertaken. We develop a model employing individual project revenue data to generate a given portfolio's NPV distribution. A heuristic procedure is developed which generates a quasi-efficient frontier of portfolios subject to restricted investment capital.

3) Quantitative Analyses of Engineering Economic Problems in Chinese Petroleum Industry, Guang - Yao Lee / Southwestern Petroleum Inst, Dept of Eng Mgt, Nanchong, Sichaun, 637001, China, Yuji Liu / Southwestern Petroleum Inst, Dept of Basic Sci, Nanchong, Sichaun, 637001, China, Yong Shi / Univ of Nebraska At Omaha, Coll of Bus Admin, Room 310-D, Omaha, NE 68182-0048, USA This paper introduces the applications of system dynamics, linear programming, and fuzzy sets in solving the following engineering economic problems of the Chinese oil industry: the macroeconomic decision making of the petroleum industry; priority sequence of multiple oil pool developments; priority sequence selection of multiple development programs; risk analysis of the economic evaluation in oil and gas field development programs; and optimization and coordination of various measures for enhancing the productions.

4) Sensitivity Analysis of Process Models with Dynamic Demand, Yu J. Wu / Ryerson Poly Univ, Sch of Ind Eng-Dpt of Mech Eng, 350 Victoria St, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5B 2K3 Multi-period Process Models in which supply is represented by a LP, and demand by a dynamic function of both present and previous prices have applications to energy areas. We perform sensitivity analysis to examine sensitivities of calculation results, e.g. computing efficiency with respect to some important input parameters in dynamic demand, e.g. the lag elasticities and price elasticities.

1) Tabu Search Methods for the Flow Shop Sequencing Problem, Ue-Pyng Wen / Nat'l Tsing Hua Univ, Dept of Indust Eng, Hsinchu, Taiwan, R O C In this paper, we compare the solution procedures of the flow shop scheduling problem which have been studied in the literature based on the heuristic method called Tabu search. We investigate six algorithms by two heuristic rules to find the starting solution and three kinds of neighborhood structure. Computational results are reported.

2) Efficient Local Search Schemes in Applying Tabu Search for Flow Shop Scheduling, Jyh-Cherng Lin / Nat'l Taiwan Univ, College of Mgmt, Taipei, Taiwan, Jsung-Chyan Lai / Nat'l Taiwan Univ, Taipei, Taiwan We investigate local search schemes in applying tabu search for permmutation flow shop scheduling. By defining three parameters for measuring the search efficiency of a local search scheme, we analyze three local search schemes. Empirical results are also reported.

3) An Object-Oriented Knowledge Framework for Enterprise Integration, Wen-Ching Liou / Nat'l Chengchi Univ, Dept of Mgmt Info Sys, Wenshan, Taipei, Taiwan, R O C In this paper, an intelligent framework is proposed for storing and retrieving the knowledge of an enterprise. Together with the framework, a set of operations are also defined. The knowledge of the enterprise is represented in the form of objects. The framework is intelligent because it can trace the structure of the stored knowledge to resolve ambiguity. The interactions among objects can be standardized and automated. This framework can be used for enterprise integration.

1) The Etiology of Organizational Learning and Learning Organizations, Soon Ang / Nanyang Tech Univ, Sch of Accountancy & Bus, Nanyang Av, Singapore, 2263, Singapore, Damien Joseph / Nanyang Tech Univ, Nanyang Busi Sch, Singapore, 2263, Singapore, Sek Guan Lie / Nanyang Tech Univ, Nanyang Busi Sch, Singapore, 2263, Singapore This paper examines the etiology of organizational learning and learning organizations as fundamental concepts in management research. Using bibliographic, citation, and content analyses, we explore the theoretical evolution of organizational learning and its impact on the development of learning organizations in practice. Implications for future research on organizational learning ensue.

2) Learning in Non-Routine Work, Amit Das / Nanyang Tech Univ, Sch of Accountancy & Business, Singapore, 2264, Singapore, Paul E. Johnson / Univ of Minnesota, 271 19th Av S., Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA, K. K. Sinha / Univ of Minnesota, 271 19th Av South, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA Improvements in organizational performance are often limited by non-routine work. We investigate the mechanisms underlying productivity improvement in technical support for software, an instance of non-routine work. We find that improvements in productivity arise from the structuring of the material and social environment within which work is performed.

3) Action Taking and Learning from Action in Complex Environments, Kathleen Sutcliffe / Univ of Michigan, Dept of O B H R M, Sch of Bus, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1234, USA Deductive strategy-making is difficult in ill-defined environments as executives cannot perceive their environments accurately. This study suggests that misperceptions are important for strategic learning because misperceptions enable managers to overcome inertial tendencies and undertake difficult courses of action. Action facilitates learning by generating new information that helps executives modify erroneous understandings.

4) Winning Battles, But Losing Wars: Using Strategies Learned During Intra- and Inter-Technology Competition, Shobha Das / Nanyang Tech Univ, Sch of Accountancy & Bus, Nanyang Av, Singapore, 2263, Singapore A firm which successfully beats a competitor sponsoring a rival technology may sometimes lose out to another firm supporting the same technology. This paper examines strategies used by firms developing a new technology and the problems of reusing strategies that are learned during one form of technological competition in another.

1) Time-Cost Tradeoffs in Stochastic Project Networks, Arnold H. Buss / Naval Postgraduate School, Operations Research Dept, Monterey, CA 93943-5000, USA, Meir Rosenblatt / Washington Univ, Box 1133, St Louis, MO 63130 4899, USA Determining optimal allocation of resources for projects has been well-studied in deterministic networks but not for stochastic networks. We address this problem using expected present value criterion for projects with stochastic activity durations and resource constraints. Exact solutions are obtained when the project can be modeled as a Markov Project Network (M P N), but simulation is required for the general case. The M P N results are relatively robust for moderate levels of randomness.

2) Bicriterion Approach for PERT/TIME with Fuzzy Duration, Sang-Su Han / Osaka International Univ, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-01, Japan, K Uematsu / Osaka International Univ, Hirakata, Osaka, 573-01, Japan, Hiroaki Ishii / Osaka Univ, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita-Shi, Osaka, 565, Japan We consider a problem to find an optimal schedule satisfying the following two criterion and propose an efficient algorithm for solving it. (

1) There are n projects to be processed. (

2) Fuzzy duration is specified with a membership function. (

3) Fuzzy duration is associated with each project. (

4) Objective function consists of two criterion minimizing maximum completion time and maximizing minimum satisfaction level.

1) Classification Using Neural Networks, B Eddy Patuwo / Kent State Univ, Grad School of Bus, Kent, OH 44242, USA, Michael Hu / Kent State Univ, Coll of Bus, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA, Ming Hung / Kent State Univ, Coll of Bus, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA, Murali Shanker / Kent State Univ, College of Business, Dept of Adm, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA Artificial neural networks are new methods for classification. Here we discuss the importance of problem type and data generation on classification using neural networks, and also compare the performance of neural networks with classical methods such as linear discriminant analysis and quadratic discriminant analysis, and nonparametric methods for classification.

2) L P-Based Recursive Pratitioning for High-Speed Machine Learning and Pattern Recognition, Richard S Barr / Southern Methodist Univ, Dept of Comp Sci And Engr, Dallas, TX 75275, USA, Fred Glover / Univ of Colorado, Sch of Bus, C B 419, Boulder, CO 80309, USA The speed of linear-programming-based discrimination can be married with the increased accuracy of higher-order separation surfaces and recursive partitioning to yield powerful pattern recognition models. We describe a series of algorithms and their implementation and application to a series of real-world problems.

1) Deadlock Detention and Resolution in Discrete Event Simulation, J. Smith / Texas A & M Univ, Dept of Ind Eng, College Station, TX 77843, USA, R Venkatesh / Texas A & M Univ, Dept of Ind Eng, College Station, TX 77843, USA Deadlock is a situation when a set of entities in a simulation, holding some resources, all request access to resources held by other entities in the same set. Due to the stochastic nature of simulation and a lack of information on the chronology of events a priori, predicting deadlocks in simulation is a difficult task. In this paper, we present a graph theoretic model to capture the deadlock characteristics, and some deadlock properties of a general discrete event simulation system. Finally, we suggest deadlock detection and resolution as an appropriate strategy in simulation systems and present an appropriate detection and resolution methodology.

2) Bi-Direction Simulation Models for Scheduling and Control, Edward F. Watson / Louisiana State Univ, Coll of Bus Adm, Dept of Quant, Bus Analysis, 3190 Ceba Bldg, Baton Rouge, LA 70803-6316, USA Discrete-event simulation, for many years, has been successfully applied as a tool for predicting system behavior under stochastic and deterministic conditions. This paper discusses the use of simulation models for purposes other than prediction. Specifically, bi-directional (i.e., backwards, reverse) simulation models are reviewed and application to trivial and complex systems are presented.

3) Experience with Simulation for Task Generation in Real Time Control of Flexible Manufacturing Systems, Sanjay Joshi / Penn State Univ, Dept of Indust & Mfg Eng, 207 Hammond Bldg, University Park, PA 16802, USA, J. Smith / Texas A & M Univ, Dept of Ind Eng, College Station, TX 77843, USA, Claude D Pegden / Sys Modelling Corp, 435 Woodland Rd., Sewickley, PA 15143, USA, Dave Sturrock / Sys Modelling Corp, Simulation models are typically used for design/system evaluation, and capture the same operational logic that is needed for control. This paper presents the concept of dual use of the simulation model for design and subsequent control. The framework for simulation-based, real-time control of a shop floor will be presented and discussed. Enhancements to SIMAN simulation software to enable real time control will be presented. Implementation of this approach in two full scale FMS labs (at Penn State and Texas A&M) will be discussed.

1) Decision Support Systems: An International Perspective, Ramesh Sharda / Oklahoma State Univ, College of Bus Adm, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA, Henk G. Sol / Delft Univ of Tech, Sch of Sys Eng, P O L Analysis, & Mgt, Jaffalaan 5, Delft 2600 G A, Netherlands, Joseph K. Tan / Univ of British Columbia, Fac of Medicine, 5804 Fairview Av, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z3, Robert W. Blanning / Vanderbilt Univ, Owen Grad Sch of Mgmt, Nashville, TN 37203, USA This workshop examines DSS developments around the world. Dss applications and user characteristics in several countries are compared. Major DSS projects and key technical challenges faced in industry are discussed. R&D directions in these countries are also highlighted, with emphasis on the potential for international linkages.

1) Strategic Analysis: A Qualitative Approach, Erik Johnsen / Copenhagen Bus Sch, Mgmt Res Inst, Blagardsgade 23 B, Dk-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark A method is developed, which enables top management to produce a strategic profile in one day, answering the questions: who are we, what do we do, what do we desire in the future and how do we act. Answers are generated in terms of 4x4 invariable dimensions of strategic nature. Illustrations by numerous applications.

2) Innovatory Planning: A Key Competitive Factor, Maria Angela C. De Melo / Pontificia Univ Catolic R J, Rua Sambaiba 304/408, Leblon, Rio de Janeiro C E P, 22450 140, Brazil From a socio-ecological perspective, and based on an adaptive view of the planning process, this paper characterizes the technological and social innovations adopted by some enterprises in order to cope with the demands of an increasingly competitive environment. The paper tries to classify these innovations as part of an overall consistent planning process or as incremental responses to specific demands and pressures.

3) Quality Improvement in Select Manufacturing Facilities, Jane E Humble / Industrial Tech Dept, Box 6806, Arizona State Univ, Tempe, AZ 852876806,

Monday 13:00-14:15

1) The Incentive System Problem in Health Care Financing Systems, Adolf Arnold Stepan / Inst Fur Betriebswissenschaften, Arbeitswssnschft Und Betrieb, Theresianumgasse 27/330, A-1040 Wien, Austria Financing health care is a very controversial topic. Success and effectiveness depends very stongly on clear (political) goals and the implemented incentive system. We concentrate on financing systems for hospitals. After discussing some objective functions, we follow a three step phase scheme of the financing process. Phase one: sources (who pays), phase two: transfer (who get the money in the hospital), and phase three: budgeting and resource allocaion (how is the money spent). We compare different reimbursement regimes and provide examples from the US and Europe.

2) Healthcare Discharge Planning as a Distributed Decision Making Process, Sandra Potthoff / Univ of Minnesota, Sch of Public Health, 420 Delaware St, S. E., Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA Discharge planning is an inherently complex decision making process, the results of which greatly impact on patients, families, and communities. It involves multiple decision makers across time and space, each with different domains of expertise, and requires coordinated information from across the continuum of health care settings. Using a conceptual framework of distributed decision making and computer supported collaborative work, this paper discusses the current state-of-the-art of discharge planning, and proposes a research agenda to improve discharge planning as a means to achieve continuity of health care.

3) Aspects of Fuzzy Sets Technology Application to Medical Decision Making, Augustine O. Esogbue / Georgia Inst of Tech, Sch of Ind & Sys Eng, Atlanta, GA 30332-0205, USA This paper considers several areas in health care delivery that exhibit medical decision making in which classical mathematical modeling is shown to have certain deficiencies by failing to address the presence of uncertainties of the non-probabilistic type. Fuzzy sets, and now neural networks, have become attractive approaches for coping with this problem with encouraging results. Of particular interest are problems involving medical diagnosis and anesthesia administration. For each problem, we first discern the fuzzy aspects and review fuzzy modeling approaches proposed in the literature.

1) Asset Return Scenario Models for Financial Planning, David Carino / Frank Russell Co, P O Box 1616, Tacoma, WA 98401, USA, Steve Murray / Frank Russell Co, P O Box 1616, Tacoma, WA 98401, USA Financial planning models using the stochastic programming approach have been successfully implemented. In asset allocation applications, these models require scenarios of asset class returns. Creating scenario inputs involves two distinct steps: (

1) the specification and estimation of an underlying model of asset returns and (

2) the sampling or selection of scenarios from the underlying model. We describe suitable asset return models and techniques for selecting and adjusting sampled scenarios.

2) Estimating Currency Hedge Ratios fro International Portfolios, Grant W. Gardner / Frank Russell Co, P O Box 1616, Tacoma, WA 98401, USA, Douglas Stone / Frank Russell Co, P O Box 1616, Tacoma, WA 98401, USA The most popular method of calculating a currency hedge ratio for an international asset portfolio uses mean-variance optimization to find the hedge ratio that maximizes the total portfolio's risk adjusted return. The values of the expected returns, variances, and covariances needed to calculate this hedge ratio must be estimated, and any error in these estimates in transformed into error in the estimate of the hedge ratio. This paper uses a bootstrap technique to estimate this empirical distribution of the hedge ratio for portfolios based in five different currencies. We examine methods of constraining the estimate of the hedge ratio to improve its mean squared error.

3) Asset-Liability Management Policies for Pension Funds, Cees L. Dert / K N S M, Laan 719, 1019 Lh Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Alexander H G Rinnooy Kan / Erasmus Univ Rotterdam, P O Box 1738, Rotterdam, Nl-3000 Dr, The Netherlands We shall present a multi-stage recourse model which minimizes the expected costs of funding a benefit defined pension plan, subject to stable annual contributions and probabilistic constraints on insolvency at the end of each year. The solution includes present decisions and annual recourse decisions for a time span of 30 years.

1) Telecomm. Network Capacity Provisioning with Economic and Resource Availability Constraints, Ugo Mocci / Fondazione Ugo Bordoni, V. Baldassarre Castiglione 59, Rome, 00142, Italy, Luigi Primicerio / Fondazione Ugo Bordoni, V. Baldassarre Castiglione 59, Rome, 00142, Italy Telecommunication networks are implemented minimising PVAC. With uncertain demand, the capability to provide services becomes a major objective in network provisioning. In the paper the "shortage probability" quantifies resource availability to meet a stochastic demand and the capacity planning problem is formulated and solved resorting to MCDM techniques under fixed charges and system capacity constraints.

2) Network Optimization with Piecewise Linear Concave Costs, S. Ketabi / Univ of Adelaide, Dept of Applied Math, So Australia 5005, Australia The paper considers the problem of finding a minimum cost undirected communication network when the link costs are piecewise linear and concave. This problem is known to be Np-hard. Several techniques are applied to the problem and compared: an heuristic based on that proposed by Minoux, simulated annealing and also a lower bounding technique that can be used to get solutions. Computational results will be presented.

3) Optimal Call Admission in Circuit-Switched Networks, Christos G. Cassandras / Univ of Mass-Amherst, Dept of Ece, Amherst, MA 01003, USA, Vibhor Julka / Univ of Mass/Amherst, Dept of Ece, Amherst, MA 01003, USA The problem of call admission, so as to minimize the total call blocking probability, is viewed as a stochastic discrete resource allocation problem where tranceivers are allocated to call types categorized by allowable circuits. A threshold-based class of state-dependent policies is presented with an on-line scheme for optimizing over the controllable threshold values. The nature of this scheme is such that no modeling assumptions are required for the call arrival and duration processes.

4) A Method for Call Admission Control in ATM Networks with Heterogeneous Sources, Benjamin Avi-Itzhak / RUTCOR, Rutgers Univ, Rutgers Ctr For Op.Res., P.O. Box 5062, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA, Shlomo Halfin / Bellcore, 445 South St, Morristown, NJ 07960, USA A procedure which can be applied to deciding if an additional virtual channel (user, source) can be assigned to an end-to-end virtual path or if a link connecting two ATM switches can carry an additional VC is presented. The method is effective even for highly bursty source mixes and is designed to be used in real time.

5) Some Communication Network Design Problems with Consideration of Reliability, Time Delay and Cost, Adil I. Erzin / Univezsitetsky Prospekt 4, Novosibizsk, 63009, Russia Many real world problems can be considered as communication network design problems. Among them, telephone network structure optimization, constructing of reliable two-pole signal networks, LAN design problems with consideration of time delay, cost and scheduling, etc. Some of these problems and algorithms are proposed.

1) Bayesian Network Based Models for Telecommunication Services, Kazuo J. Ezawa / A T & T, Room 7E-523, 600 Mountain Av, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA An automatic construction of a Bayesian probabilistic network model from data is discussed. In addition to being quite successful at predicting rare event outcomes, it is able to easily handle a mixture of categorical and continuous explanatory variables. Comparative analysis of the model is presented through telecommunication applications.

2) A Mathematical Programming Approach to Human Resources Planning, G. Naadi Naadimuthu / Fairleigh Dickinson Univ, Info Sys & Sci Dept, Mail Code M01Q, Madison, NJ 07940, USA This paper involves optimization of direct and indirect labor of a firm to maximize profit over the planning horizon taking into consideration factors such as hiring, training, skill levels, experience, overtime costs, layoff, retirement, productivity, and quality. A numerical example illustrates the approach to determine the optimal mix of direct and indirect labor.

3) A Model for Probabilistic Ranking of Sales Leads and Assessing Economic Impact, Lakshman P. Sinha / A T & T Bell Lab, 600 Mountain Av, Room 7E-519, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA, Steven Borbash / A T & T Bell Labs, 600 Mountain Av, Room 7C-510, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA A model which estimates the probability of sales success based on external factors is presented. Then the economics of a ranked sales list is discussed. The expected dollar value of the ranked sales leads are postulated to drop exponentially. Under this assumption, the economics of the list are explored.

4) An Optimal Pricing Strategy Model for Managing Facility Fills, Lakshman P. Sinha / A T & T Bell Lab, 600 Mountain Av, Room 7E-519, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA, Ke-Tsai E. Chin / A T & T Bell Labs, 600 Mountain Av, Room 7C-506, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA, Bernard O. Nneji / A T & T Bell Labs, 600 Mountain Av, Room 7A-426, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA A model for developing incentive pricing to encourage sales of over capacity in communications network segments is presented. Alternative objective to be optimized is discussed. Sample results with synthesized network and data are presented to illustrate the concepts presented.

1) Using MPL for Windows with the New CPLEX Windows DLL, Bjarni Kristjansson / Maximal Software Inc, 1925 N Lynn St #400, Arlington, VA 22209, USA In this demonstration of MPL for Windows, we will show how the tight integration with the new CPLEX Windows DLL now allows users to transparently access CPLEX directly from MPL's Graphical User Interface. We will also demonstrate how MPL can now directly import data from relational databases such as Paradox. Special emphases will be given to what effect this can have on formulating large industrial models.

1) Metagraphs: A Tool for Modeling Decision Support Systems, Robert W. Blanning / Vanderbilt Univ, Owen Grad Sch of Mgmt, Nashville, TN 37203, USA, Amit Basu / Vanderbilt Univ, Owen Graduate School of Mgmt, Nashville, TN 37203, USA Metagraphs are an extension of traditional graphical structures, such as digraphs and hypergraphs, that show promise for modeling the interactions among components of a decision support system. These components are data files, decision models, knowledge bases, and possibly human information sources as well. We define metagraphs and examine their graphical, algebraic, and computational properties.

2) A DSS for the Replacement of an Ambulance Fleet, John Walker / Nanyang Tech Univ, School of Acc. & Bus, Singapore, 2263, Singpore The use of a DSS is illustrated in considering the replacement of an ambulance fleet. The DSS has easy access to Windows database, spreadsheet and workprocessing packages. The DSS use of computer graphics is illustrated in considering the uncertainty inherent in the poor quality ambulance fleet data.

3) A Comparison of Telework Implementations in the US and Japan, Kunihiko Higa / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Info & Sys Mgmt, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Tung Bui / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Info & Sys Mgmt, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong With the advent of portable computers, fax machines, cellular phones, and other telecommunications technology, the number of professionals who join their colleagues to work outside their office has continued to rise steadily. Not only is telework becoming a reality, but it is becoming a major option for organizations to conduct their business as well. More importantly, telework is now regarded by many as the springboard for the reengineering of how work is done. This paper will report on teleworking activities in the US and Japan. Observations from telework implementation activities are discussed and compared.

4) Supporting Negotiation Memory, Tung Bui / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Info & Sys Mgmt, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Francois Bodart / Univ of Notre Dame de LA Paix, Namur, Belgium One of the major differences in long lasting negotiation lies in the fact that antagonists do not remember the contents as well as the context of previous sessions. We present a model to describe evolutionary and learning process in negotiation. The model serves as a foundation for the design of a computerized argumentation language for argumentation (ARBAS).

1) IT Use in Indian Railways - Successes and Failures, G. Raghuram / Indian Inst of Mgt, Public Systems Group, Vastrapur, Ahmedabad, 380 015, India The Indian Railways was one of the first organizations in India to develop a strategic plan for computer use, as early as the late sixties. After some initial efforts in transaction processing systems, no further progress of any significance was made. Even today, the same status continues except that an online transaction processing system for passenger reservation has gained tremendous acceptance. This paper examines the causes of the successes and failures of IT use and development in the Indian Railways, with a perspective on the demand side and supply side of this service industry.

2) Productivity Impact of IT in Singapore: A Macroeconomic Perspective, Poh-Kam Wong / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 0511, Singapore This paper investigates the impact of IT investment on overall productivity in the Singaporean economy by estimating a macroeconomic production function that includes IT capital as an input. The results indicate significant productivity payoff from IT and hence refute the "productivity paradox" in the case of Singapore.

3) Information Technology Goverance and its Performance Implications, Lawrence Loh / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, Singapore, 0511, Singapore A model of IT goverance (outsourcing) is developed using a set of benefits and risks as determinants and performance as consequences. It is tested and supported with primary data from a questionnaire survey involving CIOs in 159 Fortune 500 corporations, combined with appropriate secondary data from corporate financial statements.

1) Aggregation in a Hierarchy of Criteria and Sub-criteria, Freerk A Lootsma / Delft Univ of Tech, Fac of Tech Math And Info, Mekelweg 4, 2628 Cd Delft, Netherlands We define the relative importance of the criteria as the substitution rate between the relative gains and losses of the alternatives along indifference curves. Next, we use this new definition to re-examine the concept of relative importance in a hierarchy of sub-criteria and sub-sub-criteria.

2) Efficiency Analysis Using the A H P, Gang Hao / City Polytech of Hong Kong, Fac of Bus, Dept of Appl Stat & O R, Hong Kong, K K Lai / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Av, Dept of Applied Stat & O R, Kowloon, Hong Kong In assessing the true state of a D M U's production efficiency, additional considerations of many intangible factors, such as product quality and environmental conditions, are necessary. The existing methods, such as Ratio Analysis, Multiple Regression and the D E A have not been successful in dealing with these qualitative components. In this research, we propose to use the A H P as a formal means for efficiency assessment. We present alternate frameworks for efficiency analysis and discuss the results from the comparative study of the A H P method and other existing techniques.

3) Analysis of Multi-level A H P Hierarchies, Jonathan Barzilai / School of Computer Science, P O Box 1000, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3J 2X4 In earlier work, we analyzed the structure of what is essentially two-level A H P hierarchies. The geometric mean was estabilished as the only solution which satisfied a set of basic consistency axioms, the sets involved were characterized by group structures and appropriate homomorphisms and the axiomatic framework was extended to include the aggregation rule. This work is now extended to the general, multi-level case.

1) Markov Models and the HIV/AIDS Epidemic in Homosexual Populations, J A M Van Druten / Univ of Nijmegen, Dept Med Info Epid & Stats, P O Box 9101, 6500 Hb Nijmegen, The Netherlands, J C M Hendriks / Univ of Nijmegen, Dept Med Info Epid & Stats, P O Box 9101, 6500 Hb Nijmegen, The Netherlands, G J P Van Griensven / Municipal Health Service, Nieuwe Achtergracht 100, P O Box 20244, 1000 He Amsterdam, The Netherlands In studying the HIV/AIDS epidemic much emphasis is laid on change in risk behaviour, HIV infection and the prediction of HIV disease progression to AIDS. Analysis of HIV/AIDS cohort data of homosexual men in Amsterdam shows that Markov models can be used to study these issues.

2) Policy Analysis of H I V Interventions Targeted to Adolescents, Margaret L Brandeau / Stanford Univ, Ind Eng Dept, Stanford, CA 94305, USA, Anke Richter / Stanford Univ, Oper Res Dept, Stanford, CA 94305, USA, Douglas K. Owens / Stanford Univ, Dept of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA While the spread of H I V among adolescents has increased rapidly in recent years, some interventions targeted to adolescents, such as high school-based condom availability programs, are still hotly debated. We use a simple compartmental epidemic model to estimate the likely impacts of different types of interventions targeted to adolescents.

1) Periodic Review Inventory Models with Demand Controlled by Markovian Decision Process, Feng Cheng / Univ of Toronto, 246 Bloor St West, Toronto, O N, Canada M5S 1V4, Suresh Pal Sethi / Univ of Toronto, Faculty of Mgmt, 246 Bloor St West, Toronto Ontario, Canada M5S 1V4 A dynamic inventory model that incorporates the effect of promotions on demand is formulated as an MDP, with transition probabilities between the demand states being dependent on the promotion decision. We show that the optimal inventory policy is of base-stock type and the optimal promotion policy is of threshold type.

2) Scheduling Input to an Inventory System for Continous Consumption, Huanxu Pan / National Univ of Singapore, Inst of Sys Sci, Heng Mui Keng Terrace, Kent Ridge, 0511, Singapore We consider an inventory system which requires non-zero inventory to meet the demand of continuous consumption. One example of such a system is a video-on-demand (VOD) server where the data of a requested video stream has to be retrieved from a disk and put into a finite buffer before being played back continuously at a variable rate. Moreover, multiple buffers have to be simultaneously maintained in order to serve multiple requests. We develop a dynamic scheduling algorithm for producing input to the inventory system that guarantees non-zero inventory and non-overflow for each of a number of heterogeneous consumers.

3) Sensitivity of the Stochastic (Q, R) Inventory Systems, Tae Bo Jeon / Kangwon Nat'l Univ, Dept of I E, Chuncheon, Kangwondo, 200-701, Korea, Edward F Mykytka / Air Force Inst of Tech, Dept of Operational Sciences, Wright-Patterson Afb, OH 45433, USA Explicit sensitivity analyses for stochastic (Q,R) inventory system have been performed in this study. The major goal of this research is to investigate the stochastic (Q,R) inventory system in which all shortages are backordered. We assume a wide range of parameter values and perform extensive experiments. Sensitivity of the model to eight parameters are examined. Our results not only explicity visualize the individual and joint parameter effects on the optimal decisions, but address why distributional assumptions can be very acute whenever the optimal no stock-out probability lies in the extreme upper tail.

4) Controlling Inventory Shortages Via Reliability Constraints, Moshe Sniedovich / Univ of Melbourne, Department of Mathematics, Parkville Vic 3052, Australia, Susanne Irvine / Univ of Melbourne, Dept of Mathematics, Parkville Vic 3052, Australia A method is presented for controlling inventory shortages via the imposition of reliability constraints. The approach is based on a generalisation of methods used in reservoir control problems, and deploys Lagrange multipliers techniques. Numerical examples illustrating the modelling and computational aspects of the method will be presented.

5) An MDP Model for Joint Promotion and Inventory Decisions, Suresh Pal Sethi / Univ of Toronto, Faculty of Mgmt, 246 Bloor St West, Toronto Ontario, Canada M5S 1V4, Feng Cheng / Univ of Toronto, 246 Bloor St West, Toronto, O N, Canada M5S 1V4 A dynamic inventory model that incorporates the effect of promotions on demand is formulated as an MDP, with transition probabilities between the demand states being dependent on the promotion decision. We show that the optimal inventory policy is of base-stock type and the optimal promotion policy is of threshold type.

1) Component Commonality and Product Substitutability, William Kent Hale / Univ of Minnesota, 1805 2 Lake St, Apt 206, Minneapolis, MN 55408, USA, David Pyke / Dartmouth Coll, Amos Tuck Sch, Tuck Dr, Hanover, NH 03755, USA We examine inventory policies in assemble-to-order environments when there is not only component commonality, but also product substitutability.

2) Job Splitting In a Single Machine SPT Scheduling Environment - A Game Theoretic Analysis, Ashok Srinivasan / Purdue Univ, Krannert Grad Sch of Mgmt-1310, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1310, USA, Murgie Krishnan / Univ of Minn, Carlson Sch of Mgmt-Dept Acctg, 662 Mgmt/Econ 217 19th Av S, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0413, USA We consider a job shop environment where jobs are scheduled according to the SPT rule. Agents submit jobs and seek to minimize completion time. We characterize conditions when job-splitting will take place.

3) Optimal Production Policies for Styled Products, Medini R. Singh / Dartmouth College, Amos Tuck Sch, Tuck Dr, Hanover, NH 03755, USA, Walid Abillama / Univ of Michigan, Ind of Oper Engineering, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA Consider the production of styled products, which can be produced year-round, but can be sold primarily during a narrow window of opportunity. Limited in-season capacity is the prime motive for off-season production. We discuss how much to produce in anticipation of a demand and when to postpone production.

4) Issues in Assembly Line Design, David Pyke / Dartmouth Coll, Amos Tuck Sch, Tuck Dr, Hanover, NH 03755, USA, Steven Powell / Dartmouth Coll, Amos Tuck Sch, Tuck Dr, Hanover, NH 03755, USA We discuss recent research in assembly line design, focusing on issues of optimal location of buffers and optimal allocation of work to different stages of production.

1) Analyzing the Value of Central Coordination in a Two-Echelon Production and Distribution System, Kevin Weng / Georgia Inst of Tech, School of Management, Atlanta, GA 30332-0520, USA This paper studies the value of central coordination in a two-echelon production and distribution system consisting of one manufacturing center and n distribution centers. The system operates to meet random demand of one product. N distribution centers ordering from the manufacturing center are reviewed and replenished with random review intervals. The optimal control policies are developed and managerial insights into the effect of coordination are provided.

2) Common Safety Stock and the Control of Multi-Family Production, Karla Bourland / Dartmouth College, Amos Tuck Sch, Tuck Dr, Hanover, NH 03755, USA, Jeffrey Rummel / Duke Univ, The Fuqua Sch of Bus, Durham, NC 27708, USA We consider short-term production scheduling for several families where, in addition to stock for specific items within a given family, family common stock may be held. This common stock may be converted, at an additional cost to the manufacturer, to meet demand for any item in that family. We address the problem where the time to produce each family is limited.

3) Coordinating Feed Production and Distribution for a Cattleyard, Moshe Dror / Univ of Arizona, M I S Dept, Mc Clelland 430, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA, Janny Leung / Univ of Arizona, M I S Dept, Mc Clelland 430, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA, Paul Abraham Mullaseril / Univ of Arizona, M I S Dept, Mc Clelland 430, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA We describe the livestock feed production and distribution operation of a cattle ranch in Arizona. We will discuss the various timing, capacity and feed-type constraints, and the costs and feed-quality tradeoffs involved. We propose a multi-stage model for the entire operations-planning problem and present preliminary results of some heuristic algorithms.

4) Coordinating Component Procurement with Random Demands and Lead Times, Candace Arai Yano / Univ of California, I E O R Dept, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA, Jing-Sheng Song / Univ of California, Grad Sch of Mgt, Irvine, CA 92717, USA We examine procurement policies for components needed for assembly of a finished product when both the demands for the finished product and the procurement lead times are random. Structural results and optimal solutions for special cases and heuristic procedures for more general problem environments will be presented.

1) Generating Almost Optimal Solutions for the Integer One-Dimensional Cutting Stock Problem, G. Wascher / Tech Univ Braunschweig, Braunschweig, D-38092, Germany In this paper the problem of generating integer solutions to the standard one-dimensional cutting stock problem is treated. We study a specific class of heuristic approaches that have been proposed in the literature. It will be shown that there exist two methods that solve almost any problem instance to an optimum.

2) Exact Solution of the One-Dimensional Cutting Stock Problem, G. Scheithauer / Technical Univ Dresden, D-01069, Dresden, Germany Numerical experiments show that instances of medium-size cutting stock problems can be solved exactly on PC computers. In the paper, we give theoretical results with respect to the difference between the optimal value and the corresponding LP lower bound. Furthermore, a branch & bound algorithm is proposed and numerical results are presented.

3) Heuristic Augmentation to the Cutting and Skiving Stock Problem Solver, M P Johnson / Majiq Inc, 8343 154th Av NE, Redmond, WA 98052, USA, C Rennick / Majiq Inc, 8343 154th Av NE, Redmond, WA 98052, USA, E Zak / Majiq Inc, 8343 154th Av NE, Redmond, WA 98052, USA Hopeless classic cutting stock problems can be solved by cutting auxiliary rolls that are skived (joined) together to form finished rolls of ordered sizes. This generalization is the cutting and skiving stock problem. Performance, small number of patterns and LP/Heuristic hybrid algorithm made this heuristic a valuable addition to the software package Majiqtrim.

4) Two-Stage Guillotine Cutting and the MIRUP, J. Terno / Technical Univ Dresden, D-01069, Dresden, Germany The modified integer round-up property (MIRUP) for a linear integer optimization means that the optimal value of this problem is not greater than the optimal value of the corresponding LP relaxation rounded up plus one. We replace "plus one" by "plus two" and investigate the non-exact two-stage guillotine cutting of rectangles with respect to this property.

1) Dynamic Pricing of Cellular Phones and Phone-Calls: A Demand Side Analysis, Eitan Muller / Tel-Aviv Univ, Recanati Grad Sch of Bus Admin, Tel Aviv 69978, 69978, Israel, Dipak C. Jain / Northwestern Univ, Kellogg Grad Sch of Mgmt, Evanston, IL 60201-3109, USA, Naufel J. Vilcassim / Univ of Southern Calif, Dept of Marketing, School of Business, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA A model of dynamic competitive pricing of cellular phones and phone-calls is developed using a game theoretic framework to provide a demand-side explanation for the observed time paths of these two prices. Conditions under which skimming penetration, and exclusive pricing policies are profit-maximizing for sellers are also analyzed.

2) Dynamic Equilibrium Advertising and Pricing Strategies in Oligopolistic Markets, Naufel J. Vilcassim / Univ of Southern Calif, Dept of Marketing, School of Business, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA, Vrinda Kadiyali / Cornell University, Johnson Grad Sch of Mgmt, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA, Pradeep K. Chintagunta / Cornell Univ, Johnson Grad School of Mgmt, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA The framework of supergames is used to model dynamic advertising and pricing rivalry among firms in an oligopolistic market. Fully-structural econometric estimation of the model parameters is done using time-series data for three brands of a personal-care product. Various insights into the nature of brand competition are provided.

3) Biases in Promotion Effects Estimated from Linearly Aggregated Data When the Disaggregate Model is Nonlinear, Dick R. Wittink / Cornell Univ, Johnson Grad Sch of Mgmt, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA, John Porter / A C Nielsen, Nielson Plaza, Northbrook, IL 60062, USA, Sachin Gupta / Northwestern Univ, Kellogg Grad School of Mgmt, Leverone Hall, Evanston, IL 60208, USA We show analytical expressions and empirical verification of biases in effects estimated from market-level data, as provided by commercial suppliers, when the model for store-level data is nonlinear.

4) Consumer Perceptions of Environment and Price Levels in Department, Specialty, and Discount Stores: Shopping Goods Example, Patricia M. Anderson / Quinnipiac College, Lender Sch of Bus, Hamden, CT 06518, USA The marketing question is: which store-environment attributes attract apparel versus electronics shoppers, and meet expectations for a store/price level fit? Results suggest price-attribute combinations that motivate customers to shop at a particular store. Shoppers respond after buying and not buying at real stores.

1) Hybrid Indicators for the Swedish Economy Based on Noisy Statistical Data and the Business Tendency Survey, Lars-Erik Oller / Nat'l Inst of Econ Research, P O Box 3116, Stockholm, S 10362, Sweden, Christer Tallbom / Nat'l Inst of Econ Research, P O Box 3116, Stockholm, S 10362, Sweden In a noisy data environment a new indicator is constructed based on statistical and business tendency survey data. Smoothing reduces the risk of wrong turning point signals. A device for correct and timely turning point identification is presented.

2) Exponential Smoothing Visibility Module for Integrated Systems, A.D. Amar / Seton Hall Univ, Sch of Bus Admin, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA Many planning and computer integrated manufacturing systems relax the capacity constraint which causes overload on work stations, the cause of the system's inability to acurately forecast job completion dates. This paper relates experiences in design and implementation of a module that utilizes exponential smoothing as a basis for adding visibility to such systems.

3) Empirical Forecasting Experience Using GARCH Models, Philip Hans Franses / Erasmus Univ-Rotterdam, Econ Inst., P.O. Box 1738, Nl-3000 Dr Rotterdam, Netherlands In this paper we evaluate the empirical forecasting performance of the GARCH model and several of its (nonlinear) variants for a large set of financial assets. It appears that the within-sample fit of these models is quite accurate, but that the out-of-sample forecasts are not (much) better than naive forecasts.

4) An Empirical Examination of the Black and Scholes Model in the Option Market of Rio de Janeiro, Tara K.N. Baidya / Pontificia Univ Catolica, Rua Marques de Sao Vicente, 225 Gavea, Rio DE Janeiro, 22543-900, Brazil, Luiz A De Barros Barreto / Pontificia Univ Catolica, Rua Marques de Sao Vicente, 225 Gavea, Rio DE Janeiro, 22543-900, Brazil The objective of this paper is to describe how the market prices of the call option traded in the stock market of Rio de Janeiro compare with prices predicted by the Black and Scholes option pricing model. Our conclusion is that the Black and Scholes model is valid for the option market in Rio de Janeiro.

1) Computational Strategies for Solving Certain Linear Programming Models of Distribution Systems, R. P. Sundarraj / Clark Univ, Grad Sch of Mgt At Clark, Worcester, MA 01610, USA, S Kingsley Gnanendran / Univ of Scranton, Sch of Mgt, Scranton, PA 18510-4602, USA Linear programming models of distribution systems can often be cast as block-angular programs that are decomposable in alternate ways. Owing to variations in the relative dimensions of the resulting master and subproblems, the solution times for alternate decompositions are different from one another for the same problem. We investigate the question of choosing the best such decomposition (in terms of run-time), for any given problem instance.

2) An Algorithm for Some Inverse Combinatorial Optimization Problems, Jianzhong Zhang / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Dept of Math, Tat Chee Av, Hong Kong, Chao Yang / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Dept of Math, Hong Kong We consider a class of inverse combinatorial optimization problems which includes some known problems such as inverse shortest path problem and inverse minimum spanning tree problem. A column generation algorithm is proposed which can get optimal solution in finite steps. Some numerical results are also reported.

3) Building of a Portable Large Scale Linear Programming Computer System, Federico Trigos / I T E S M Campus Toluca, 9297 Siempre Viva Rd, Ste 65-300, San Diego, CA 92173-3628, USA Main steps that should be taken into account to build a LP-IPM computer system will be presented. Issues as code portability and user's interface, as well as the usage of Personal Computers for solving Large Scale Linear Programming Problems will be discussed.

4) A Framework for Large-Scale Optimization, James K Ho / Info & Dec Sci Coll Bus Admin, Univ Ill At Chicago, M/C 294, 601 South Morgan, Chicago, IL 60607, All known methodology for largee-scale systems canbe viewed as the design of computational techniques to take advantage of various structural properties observed in problems as well as solution alogorithms. A general framework for this perspective is presented.

1) Fast Routing on a Network Using a Routing Index, Philip Kilby / C S I R O/D I T, PO Box 664, Canberra Act 2601, Australia A method for calculating a "routing index" for every node on the graph representing a road network is presented. This allows approximate solutions to vehicle routing and travelling salesman problems on the graph to be found very quickly by sorting on the index.

2) Decision Support Systems for Airlines Irregular Operations Control, Gang Yu / Univ of Texas-Austin, Dept of Msis, CBA 5.202, Austin, TX 78712, USA Airline operations control is one of the most complicated processes in the industry due to intricate flight schedule, scarce and tightly coupled resources, various restrictions enforced by FAA, and dynamic operational environment. In this talk, I will present a mathematical framework for a real time decision support system on irregular operations control currently under implementation at Continental Airlines.

3) On a Train Combination Problem in Railroad Industry, Kavindra Malik / Cornell Univ, Johnson Grad Sch Mgmt, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA, Yufei Wang / American Airlines Dec Tech, Dallas F W, TX 7, USA During railroad operations, schedules specify time-windows on departure times of each train. Given transit times, and station-dwell times, allowable windows on crew legs can be computed. Two or more trains can be staffed with a single crew. We minimize crew costs by combining trains on common legs.

4) A Warehouse Location Problem for the Distribution of Phone Books, Leonard Lu / US West Technologies, 4001 Discovery Dr, Boulder, CO 80303, USA, Yuping Qiu / U S West Advanced Tech, 4001 Discovery Dr, Ste 280, Boulder, CO 80303, USA Consider a region of n cities where m different kinds of phone books (white and yellow pages) are supplied by a local telephone company. Each kind of book will be printed once a year and stored in a warehouse in one of the cities. Different kinds of books can be printed at different times of the year and can be stored in different cities. Two types of demand patterns are considered: deterministic and stochastic. We will derive mathematical formulations for both cases. A simple heuristic procedure and a genetic algorithm are developed for solving the problems.

1) A Qualitative Study of Organizational Learning in Four Biotechnology Firms, Chickery J. Kasouf / Worcester Polytech Inst, Dept of Management, 100 Institute Rd, Worcester, MA 01609, USA, Michael B. Elmes / Worcester Polytechnic Inst, Dept of Mgt, Worcester, MA 01609, USA, David Wilemon / Syracuse Univ, Innovation Mgt Program, Sch of Mgt, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA The commercialization of biotechnology requires the integration of "good science" with effective management. This paper reports the results of a qualitative study that compared orgainzational learning and the science-management interface among four firms at differenct stages of development and discusses results in light of organizational life cycle issues.

2) Technological Assessment: An Empirically Derived Model, Louis A Lefebvre / Ecole Polytechnique, C.P. 6079, Succ Centre-Ville, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7, Elisabeth Lefebvre / Ecole Polytechnique, Dept of Ind Eng, 2900 Edouard Montpetit, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7 Assessing the actual level of technological innovation of a particular firm by using multiple indicators of technology remains a key and critical issue in the strategic management of technology. This paper proposes a model and presents empirical results based on data collected in 228 R&D firms.

1) Environmental Regulation in Differentiated Markets, Christos Constantatos / Green, Univ Laval, Pavillon J.A. de Seve, Sainte-Foy, Qc, Canada G1K 7P4, Eftichios Sartzetakis / Univ of British Columbia, Faculty of Commerce & Bus Adm, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z2 Differentiated markets where average cost does not rise too steeply with quality improvements may be very concentrated even at low levels of the fixed cost. Moreover, in such industries a better quality product is often obtained through the increased use of some enviromentally harmful input. We investigate changes in market concentration resulting from an environmental tax on the offending input.

2) Monitoring and Enforcement of Environmental Standards: The Role of Public Information, Benoit Laplante / The World Bank, Policy Research Dept, N10-015, 1818 H St,NW, Washington, DC 20433, USA Regulators are aware of the difficulties they are facing with respect to the monitoring and the enforcement of environmental standards. They have thus tried to develop innovative approaches. It is the purpose of this comment to argue that the production and dissemination of information is going to play an increasingly important role as a means to control pollution emissions and improve environmental quality.

3) An Economic Model for Donations of Sulfur Dioxide Emissions Allowances, Todd Strauss / Yale Sch of Mgt, 135 Prospect St, New Haven, CT 06520-8200, USA, Richard Sansing / Yale School of Mgt, 135 Prospect St, New Haven, CT 06520-8200, USA We examine the economic motivation for charitable donations of sulfur dioxide emissions allowances. Donations are motivated by the interaction of the tax code and ologopolistic competition in the allowance market.

4) Emissions Allowances and Trading: Some Empirical Findings, Joseph A. Doucet / Univ Laval, Dept of Economics, Pavillon J.A. de Seve, Sainte-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4, Todd Strauss / Yale Sch of Mgt, 135 Prospect St, New Haven, CT 06520-8200, USA The Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 have had an impact on the strategic behavior of both coal suppliers and electric utilities. We analyse utility compliance plans and allowance trades in this light. The empirical findings are then related to a spatial model of bargaining and competition for market share in the coal market.

1) Team-Telework and the New Geographical Flexibility for Information Workers, Feng Li / Napier Univ, Dept of Bus Info Mgmt, Napier Business School, Sighthill, Edinburgh, Eh11 4Bn, United Kingdom Team-telework is a concept we developed when undertaking a large telework project for the Commission of the European Communities (CEC). Instead of focusing on the notion of electronic homeworking and telecommuting, it emphasizes the use of advanced telematics to support geographically dispersed information workers working together on common tasks. This shift of focus can significantly improve the applicability and acceptability of telework in the real world, with profound implication for the way that work can be organized, managed and conducted.

2) Integration of Electronic Data Interchange Into the Firm's Internal Operations, Ali F. Farhoomand / Univ of Hong Kong, Dept of Computer Science, Pokfulam Rd, Hong Kong, Hong Kong, David Tulloch / Digital Equipment Corp, Ottawa, Canada EDI has primarily been treated as a means to exchange information between companies. Through a survey of several manufacturing firms we will examine whether firms are aware of the benefits of EDI in terms of streamlining their administrative processes and other internal operations.

3) Telecommunications Hubbing Criteria, Philip B. Stone / Natl Univ of Singapore, Dept of Bus Policy, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Margaret Tan / Natl Univ of Singapore, Dept Dec Sciences, Singapore, 0511, Singapore In Asia-Pacific, various countries are offering differing incentives to NMCs to set up telecommunications hubs. This study provides a framework that conceptualises hard and soft criteria in both technical and nontechnical domains for deciding hubbing location. An interview survey of MNCs is used to verify the model.

1) Telephone Remote Progress Reporting, Raymond Li / Monash Univ, Dept of Bus Sys, Wellington Rd, Clayton Vic, 3168, Australia Knowing a project's status real time would help the project manager to identify potential problems and implement corrective actions before disaster strikes. This paper describes a technique which allows remote site personnel with a mobile phone to provide real time reporting to update a tracking Gantt chart on a centralized computer.

2) Resource Levelling with Project Management Software, Elizabeth Burley / Monash Univ, Dept of Bus Sys, Wellington Rd, Clayton Vic, 3168, Australia There have been many papers discussing the different heuristic approaches to the Resource Constrained Scheduling Problem (RCSP). However, little research has been done in evaluating how commercial project management software packages approach RCSP. This paper evaluates three popular windows-based project management software packages - MS Project 3.0, Project Manager Workbench/w and Timeline 6.0, concentrating on how the packages deal with overallocation of resources (ie levelling) and their flexibility in defining resource types, constraints and availabilities.

3) Human Resource Assignments in Software Development Project Management, Greg Burdett / Deakin Univ, School of MIS, Burwood Hwy, Burwood, Victoria, 3125, Australia, Raymond Li / Monash Univ, Dept of Bus Sys, Wellington Rd, Clayton Vic, 3168, Australia Human beings are the most important of all project resources, yet no project management software systems currently recognise the unique characteristics of human resources. This paper describes a quantitative method based on simulated annealing which produces the most cost effective project development teams and also maximises work preferences and skills.

1) Neural Network Based Compensator Design for Industrial Control System, Venkat Subramanian / Univ of Wisconsin - Parkside, 900 Wood Rd, Box 2000, Kenosha, WI 53141-2000, USA, Akkinapalli Subbarao / Univ of Wisconsin-Parkside, 900 Wood Rd, Box 2000, Kenosha, WI 53141-2000, USA Control systems regulate industrial drives used in automatic production lines, chemical and process industries. These systems have a compensator to fine tune for parametric and performance variations. Traditional compensator design is a tedious trial and error process. We present a hybrid neural network alternative integrating genetic algorithms and nonlinear optimization for the design.

2) Neural Networks and Transportation Planning, Amiy Varma / North Dakota State Univ, Dept of Civil Eng, Fargo, ND 58105, USA Many advanced analytical and statistical techniques have been developed to improve the traditional four-step method of transportation planning; trip generation and attraction, trip distribution, mode choice, and traffic assignment. This paper would investigate the limitation and usefulness of neural network principles in improving transportation planning process.

3) Modelling Issues in Using Neural Network Classifiers, Murali Shanker / Kent State Univ, College of Business, Dept of Adm, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA, Michael Hu / Kent State Univ, Coll of Bus, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA, Ming Hung / Kent State Univ, Coll of Bus, Kent, OH 44242-0001, USA, B Eddy Patuwo / Kent State Univ, Grad School of Bus, Kent, OH 44242, USA In this talk we discuss modeling issues in using neural networks for classification. Specifically, we discuss the effect of network architecture, data transformation, target values, cutoff values, objective function and the distribution of output values on classification. Experimental results are also presented.

4) Artificial Neural Networks as Models for Corporate Appraisal, Yasataka Kainuma / Tokyo Met Coll of Com, 3-6-33 Azuma-Cho, Akishima, Tokyo 196, Japan In this paper, we investigate an artificial neural network corporate appraisal method using financial ratio. First, we show the difference of performance between the classical back propagation (steepest gradient) and the conjugate gradient method from a generalization ability point of view. Second, simulation results show the possibility on neuralnet corporate appraisal as well as the importance of generalization ability toward the neural network model structure.

1) Bootstrap Methods for Conference Intervals in Discrete Event Simulation, Russell R. Barton / Penn State Univ, Dept of Indust & Mgmt Sys Eng, 207 Hammond Bldg, University Park, PA 16802, USA, Lee William Schruben / Cornell Univ, Sch of O R & Indust Eng, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA Confidence intervals for simulation output parameters may have very low coverage when the probability distribution used in the simulation are derived from finite samples of the true population. In this talk, we discuss the use of bootstrap resampling to construct accurate confidence intervals. The value of the method is illustrated through several examples.

2) Combining Antithetic Variates with Control Variate Variance Reduction Techniques, Wei-Ning Yang / Nat'l Taiwan Inst of Tech, Dept of Info Mgmt, 43, Sec 4, Keelung Rd, Taipei, Taiwan, R O C This paper considers combining the variance reduction techniques of antithetic variates and control variates to estimate the mean response of a stochastic simulation experiment. Under some mild assumptions, we show that the integrated strategy yields a smaller response variance than the conventional control-variate estimator without using anthithetic variates.

3) An Extension of the Multiple Blocks Strategies on Estimating Simulation Metamodeling, Wheyming Tina Song / Nat'l Tsing Hua Univ, Dept of Indust Eng, Taiwan ROC, Chien Chou Su / Nat'l Tsing Hua Univ, Dept of Indust Eng, Taiwan, R O C A simulation experiment is frequently performed to estimate a metamodel, which is a functional relationship between the mean response of the simulation model and a set of simulation inputs. Several strategies have been proposed to increase the accuracy of estimation by inducing a desired correlation structure among the responses. Hussey, Myers, and Houck proposed a Multiple-Blocks strategy to the first-order linear metamodel in $2^k$ factorial designs. The limitation of their strategy is lack of interaction terms. We extend the Muliple-Blocks strategy to a general class of linear metamodels in $2^k$ factorial designs.

4) Convergence and Robustness of Retrospective Approximation, Bruce Schmeiser / Purdue Univ, Sch of Indust Eng, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1287, USA, Huifen Chen / Da-Yeh Inst of Tech, Dept of Indust Eng, 112 Shan-Jeau Rd, Dah-Tsuen, Chang-Hwa, 51505, Taiwan Retrospective approximation (RA) algorithms solve a deterministic equation with estimable function values, by approximately solving a sequence of sample-path equations. We show that RA converges with probability one under weak conditions. We empirically investigate the robustness of a specific version, Bounding RA. Empirical results show that efficient Bounding RA is robust to its parameter values.

1) Decision Support Systems: An International Perspective, Ramesh Sharda / Oklahoma State Univ, College of Bus Adm, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA, Henk G. Sol / Delft Univ of Tech, Sch of Sys Eng, P O L Analysis, & Mgt, Jaffalaan 5, Delft 2600 G A, Netherlands, Joseph K. Tan / Univ of British Columbia, Fac of Medicine, 5804 Fairview Av, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z3, Robert W. Blanning / Vanderbilt Univ, Owen Grad Sch of Mgmt, Nashville, TN 37203, USA This workshop examines DSS developments around the world. Dss applications and user characteristics in several countries are compared. Major DSS projects and key technical challenges faced in industry are discussed. R&D directions in these countries are also highlighted, with emphasis on the potential for international linkages.

1) Differential Learning and the Management of Strategic Alliances, Kofi Nti / Penn State Univ, 303 Beam Bus Admin Bldg, University Park, PA 16802, USA, Rajesh Kumar / Penn State Univ, 432 Beam Bus Admin Bldg, University Park, PA 16802, USA Strategic alliances involving technological or market linkages between potential competitors are inherently unstable due to incentive problems caused by differential knowledge acquisition. A game theoretical model of strategic alliance with differential learning is formulated. The effort level supplied by the partners is related to differential learning, market, and risk parameters. This information may be used to improve the performance and management of strategic alliances.

2) A Decomposition Approach for Solving a Distribution of Supplies Problem in a Hospital, Viviane Gascon / College Militaire Royal St.Jean, Richelain, Qc, Canada J0J 1R0, Ran Ezerzer / Univ de Montreal, C P 6128, Succursale "A", Montreal, Qc, Canada H3C 3J7 The problem of distributing the supplies in a hospital consists in determining the schedules of tasks and the assignment of the schedules to employees while taking into account time window and procedence constraints. We use a Benders decomposition method to solve that problem and compare the results with other solving methods.

3) Competitive and Manufacturing Concerns of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Singapore, G. Keong Leong / Ohio State Univ, 1775 College Rd, Columbus, OH 43085, USA, Chee-Chuong Sum / Natl Univ of Singapore, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Ting Jian Lee / Singapore Manufacturers Assoc, 20 Orchard Rd, Singapore, 0923, Singapore Despite the growing contribution of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to industrial production in Singapore, little research has been carried out to investigate the manufacturing problems faced by these firms in an increasingly competitive environment. This study examines the manufacturing concerns and competitive priorities of SMEs in Singapore.

4) Impact of Precessing Time Variability on a Composite Makespan Heuristic, Saba Bahouth / Univ of Central Oklahoma, Dept of Dec Sci, Edmond, OK 73034-0101, USA, Jerry D Allison / Univ of Central Oklahoma, Dept of Dec Sci, Edmond, OK 73034-0101, USA, Robin Trail / Univ Central Oklahoma, Dept of Math & Stats, Edmond, OK 73034-0101, USA We study the impact of variability in the processing time while applying a new proposed heuristic for minimizing the makespan in a flow shop. Results show that the proposed heuristic outperforms other well known heuistics when the processing time variability is low. Computational requirements are also compared.

Monday 14:45-16:00

1) Panel: Goals and Objective Functions: The Incentive Problem/ Principal Agent Problem in Health Care Financing Systems, Adolf Arnold Stepan / Inst Fur Betriebswissenschaften, Arbeitswssnschft Und Betrieb, Theresianumgasse 27/330, A-1040 Wien, Austria, Vivian Valdmanis / Univ of Oklahoma, Dept of Health Admin & Policy, Oklahoma City, OK 73190, USA, Peter Smith / Univ of York, Dept of Economics, Heslington, York, Y01 Sdd, Great Britain We focus on three main phases of the process of health care financing for hospitals: from Phase I, the raising of funds and contributions (who pays and why), via Phase II, the transfer of money on a (surrogate) market place (payment schemes), to Phase III, spending and budgeting. We discuss political reasoning, managerial goals and ethnic problems within each phase; and the requirement that such a system should be free of contradictions to maximize effectiveness for the patients, minimize agency cost and identify the real principal-agent relation.

1) Wage Contracts and Capital Market Signaling: A Partial Equilibrium Analysis, Aaron Low / Finance & Banking, N U S, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore This paper proposes a capital market signaling explanation for deviations of wages from their perfect market levels with complete information. The model is set in a sticky wage environment where only the managers' compensations are directly linked to the firms' market valuation. Under equlibrium separating conditions, it is found that good firms can signal their type by paying a wage premium in excess of their market clearing wage and bad firms are forced into efficiency wages.

2) Predicting Singapore Share Prices Using Price-Earning Multiples, Mahamad Ariff / Not Available.

3) Financial Derivatives in Global Corporations: A Strategic Viewpoint, William G. Harris / Pinkerton Services Group, 6100 Fairview Rd, Ste 900, Charlotte, NC 28210-3277, USA, Jayaram Muthuswamy / Finance & Banking N U S, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of financial derivatives in global organizations. These financial instruments are often used to manage the cost of raw materials, currency fluctuations and interest rate volatility. The application of financial derivatives by specific organizations from Canada, Germany, United Kingdom, and United States are highlighted. Some of these organizations demonstrate the proper role of these financial instruments in strategic planning, while others highlight the danger of misapplying these financial tools. The overall impression of financial derivatives is that they are critical and necessary to any global organization's competitiveness and strategic planning effort.

1) Interexchange Carrier Local Access Network Optimization, Yuping Qiu / U S West Advanced Tech, 4001 Discovery Dr, Ste 280, Boulder, CO 80303, USA, L.A. Cox / US West Technologies, Applied Research, 4001 Discovery Dr, Boulder, CO 80303, USA, Leonard Lu / US West Technologies, 4001 Discovery Dr, Boulder, CO 80303, USA, Xiaorong Sun / U S West Advanced Tech, 4001 Discover Dr, Ste 280, Boulder, CO 80303, USA Long distance telephone calls in the U.S.A. pass through two local access networks and an Interexchange Carrier's (IEC) long distance network. The IECs typically lease local access lines at FCC-set tariffs. This paper discusses how to minimize the cost of such leased local access networks under new FCC rules.

2) A Graph Partition Problem in Designing Synchronous Optical Networks (SONET), Leonard Lu / US West Technologies, 4001 Discovery Dr, Boulder, CO 80303, USA, Youngho Lee / US West Advanced Technologies, Applied Research, 4001 Discovery Dr, Boulder, CO 80303, USA We consider a graph partition problem arising from the SONET network design problem. The problem is to find an optimal partition such that each partitioned subgraph represents a proper geographical subregion. We present several quadradic zero-one formulations for the problem, and develop an effective genetic algorithm for solving it.

3) An Optical Fiber Routing Problem in Designing Broadband Networks, Youngho Lee / US West Advanced Technologies, Applied Research, 4001 Discovery Dr, Boulder, CO 80303, USA, Jenny Ryan / US West Technologies, Applied Research, 4001 Discovery Dr, Boulder, CO 80303, USA, Paul M Thompson / U S West Tech, Applied Research, 4001 Discovery Dr, Boulder, CO 80303, USA, Mark Parker / Univ of Colorado - Denver, Math Dept, P.O. Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA We present an optical fiber routing problem that arises in broadband network design. We present several formulations and an optimal algorithm to solve real world problems. Our approach uses the polyhedral structure of a mixed integer formulation to tighten lower and upper bounds and consequently, provides feasible solutions with guaranteed optimality.

4) Combining OR and AI Methodologies to Solve a Resource-Constrained Project Scheduling Problem, Paul M Thompson / U S West Tech, Applied Research, 4001 Discovery Dr, Boulder, CO 80303, USA, Youngho Lee / US West Advanced Technologies, Applied Research, 4001 Discovery Dr, Boulder, CO 80303, USA, Alain Dresse / Decis, Ulb, Cp 210/01, Blvd Du Triomphe, Bruxelles 1050, Belgium We consider a resource-constrained project scheduling problem. We describe a novel solution approach to this problem that combines OR and AI methodologies. We discuss our success in applying this method within a dynamic resource-constrained project scheduling environment.

1) A Multilevel Flow Control Game in Processor Sharing Networks, Christos Douligeris / Univ of Miami, Elect & Computer Eng, P O Box 248294,1251 Memorial, Coral Gables, FL 33124, USA The flow control problem in a multiclass communications environment under a processor sharing serving discipline is modelled as a multilevel problem, where one of the users or the manager of the network has a precedence in the decision process. Users control the number of packets they allow into the network to maximize their throughput under a maximum allowable average delay constraint.

2) A Duopoly Model of Access and Quality, Chris Doyle / Univ of Cambridge, Dept of Appl Econ, A.Robinson Bldg./Sidgwick Ave., Cambridge, Cb3 9De, United Kingdom A game theoretic structure is developed to examine how reliability, more generally quality, can affect the price for access. A duopoly is considered in which the reliability of an incumbent and entrant are affected by the incumbent's actions. Optimal (private and social) prices for access are calculated.

3) Architecting Noncooperative Networks, Aurel A Lazar / Columbia Univ, 801 Schapiro Res Bldg, 530 West 120 St, New York, NY 10027, USA, Yannis A. Korilis / Columbia Univ, 801 Schapiro Res Bldg, 530 West 120 St, New York, NY 10027, USA, Ariel Orda / Technion, Dept of Elec Eng, Technion City, Haifa 32000, Israel In noncooperative networks, users make control decisions that optimize their own performance measure. Focusing on routing, we devise two methodologies for architecting noncooperative networks that improve the overall network performance. These methodologies are motivated by problem settings arising in the provision and the run time phases of the network. For either phase, Nash equilibria characterize the operating point of the network.

4) A Fair-Efficient Operating Point for Broadband Networks, L.G. Mason / Inrs-Telecommunications, 16 Place Du Commerce, Verdon, Quebec, Canada H3E 1H6, Z. Dzioy / I N R S - Telecommunications, 16 Place Du Commerce, Verdun, Quebec, Canada H3E 1H6, Daoud Ait-Kadi / Laval Univ, Mech Engi, Quebec, G1K 7P4, Canada In broadband networks the issue of finding a fair-efficient operating point has prominence due to the diverse and partly unpredictable service traffic characteristics. To study the problem we propose a framework based on co-operative game theory. The approach consists of two parts. First we apply a reward maximization model for call admission and routing to obtain any operating point from the set of Pareto-optimal solutions. Then to consider fairness, we use several game-theoretic characterizations of the optimal operating point.

1) Tutorial on Heuristic-Based Optimization, Fred Glover / Univ of Colorado, Sch of Bus, C B 419, Boulder, CO 80309, USA, Manuel Laguna / Univ of Colorado, Sch of Bus, C B 419, Boulder, CO 80309, USA Many new successes are occurring in practical applications of heuristics in optimization. We describe methods and underlying principles that are providing new advances in finding better solutions to problems in scheduling, sequencing, resource allocation, design, investment planning, pattern recognition, telecommunications and a variety of other areas.

1) An Executive Information System for New Technology Assessment Decisions of a Hospital, Talluru Lakshminarayana Rao / Penn State Univ, The Behrend College, Erie, PA 16563-1400, USA The cost of new technology has been a major contributor to the rising health care costs. The new technology assessment decision has become increasingly important for hospitals. This paper proposes an executive support system (ESS) to facilitate hospital administration in the technology assessment process. The paper discusses the design issues involved in the development of a prototype ESS.

2) Design of a Data Plex for Enterprisewide Executive Support, Andrew Philippakis / Arizona State Univ, Dept of D I S, Tempe, AZ 85287-4206, USA, Michael Goul / Arizona State Univ, Dept of Decision & Info Sys, Tempe, AZ 85287-4206, USA A design architecture is presented that incorporates an organizational Data Plex, a Bus for data access and dissemination, user specific information Prisms for selective data refraction and a supporting technological and organizational infractructure.

1) Product Development in Small Companies: The Use of Judgemental Modelling, Gerd Islei / Univ of Manchester, Manchester Busi Sch, Manchester, United Kingdom M15 6Pb, A. J. Eccles / Univ of Manchester, Manchester Bus Sch, Manchester, United Kingdom This paper describes how a new hightech product was defined and designed in a small company using multicriteria techniques. It contrasts the use of questionnaires with judgmental modelling and compares the information obtained by each approach. It demonstrates how the use of an interactive decision support (JAS) facilitated an effective analysis of customer needs.

2) Multicriteria Decision Analysis for Transport Appraisal in Bangladesh, Alan D. Pearman / Univ of Leeds, Sch of Bus & Econ Studies, Leeds Ls2 9Jt, England The appraisal of major public infrastructure projects in developing countries poses significant challenges to policy makers, irrespective of whether they act on behalf of their own governments or represent one of the major international funding bodies. Many of the important impacts which need to be set alongside the capital costs involved are difficult both to quantify and to evaluate relative to other factors. There are therefore good reasons to consider the power which multicriteria techniques can bring to such decision making and to contrast the level of decision support afforded by these methods with the conventional economic yardstick of cost-benefit analysis. The conclusions put forward identify both strengths and weaknesses in the multicriteria approach and suggest that in some circumstances, a judicious combination of multicriteria and cost-benefit.

3) The Combination of Judgmental Modelling and Psychological Profiles in Understanding Group Decision Making, Peter Naude / Manchester Bus Sch, Booth St West, Manchester M15 6Pb, Great Britain Numerous studies have indicated the application of judgmental modelling approaches to decision making. Most of these work either with individual decision making or tend to assume that different individuals in a decision making team can in some way be aggregated and thus treated as if they formed a homogeneous group. This paper presents a case study that goes beyond these simple assumptions: it presents the results of longitudinal judgmental data, and explores the implications for group decision making. In addition, the psychological profiles of the different team members are presented, and this is linked to their behavior as a member of the decision making team.

4) Judgmental Modelling as an Aid to Scenario Planning and Analysis, Geoff Lockett / Univ of Leeds, Sch of Bus & Econ Studies, Leeds Ls2 9Jt, Great Britain The paper presents the results of an application of Group JAS so the development and analysis of scenarios in the chemical industry. It looks at the way the models were constructed and evaluated by the group of executives responsible for the scenario generation. The paper considers the effectiveness of the methodology in such circumstance, the place of the model in the process and how the decision makers can be incorporated into an anlysis of the outcomes. Implications for the enhancement and development of such decision support tools are outlined.

1) Explicit Results for the Transient Solutions of M(n)X(n)/M(n)/1/N Queues, J C W Van Ommeren / Univ of Twente, Faculty of Applied Mathematics, P.O. Box 217, Enschede, 7500 Ae, Netherlands, M L Chaudhry / Royal Military College, Dept Math / Computer Science, Kingston, Ont, K7K 5L0, Canada In this paper, we give analytically explicit transient solutions for finite Markov chains having transition probability matrix of a Hessenberg type. The technique presented is then used to analyze several complex queueing problems. We use eigenvalues and generalized eigenvectors of a Hessenberg matrix.

2) Numerically Stable Algorithm for Computing Stationary Probabilities of Lower Hessenberg Matrices, Yiqiang Zhao / Univ of Winnipeg, Dept of Stat, 515 Portage Av, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3B 2E9, Canada Consider a discrete-time Markov chain with a lower Hessenberg matrix. Based on probabilistic arguments, we give an explicit expression for the stationary probabilities of the Markov chain. The solution leads to a numerically stable algorithm. Different numberical analyses show the efficacy and the reliability of the algorithm.

3) On the Relations Among the Distribution at Different Epochs for the Discrete-Time GI/Geom/1 Queue, J. G. C. Templeton / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Ind Eng, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A4, Canada, M L Chaudhry / Royal Military College, Dept Math / Computer Science, Kingston, Ont, K7K 5L0, Canada, U.C. Gupta / Indian Inst of Tech, Dept of Mathematics, Kharagpur, 731302, India We derive relations among queue length distributions at prearrival and random epochs, and also for an outside observer. Two variations of the model, late arrival/delayed access and early arrival, are considered.

4) On the Steady-State Queue Size Distribution of the Discrete-Time Geo/G/1 Queue with Repeated Customers, Hui Li / Mount Saint Vicent Univ, Dept of Mathematics, Halifax,Nova Scotia, B3M 2J6, Canada, Tao Yang / Tech Univ of Nova Scotia, Dept of Ind Engr, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 2X4, Canada In this paper we study the steady-state queue size distribution of the discrete-time Geo/G/1 retrial queue. We derive analytic formulas for the probability generating function of the number of customers in the system. It is shown that the stochastic decomposition law holds for the Geo/G/1 retrial queue.

1) The Impact of Continuous Product Replenishment on Manufacturing Efficiency, Marshall Fisher / Univ of Penn, Wharton School, 1300 Sh Dh, 3620 Locust Walk, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA, Gerard P. Cachon / Duke Univ, Fuqua Sch of Bus, Box 90120, Durham, NC 27708-0120, USA Continuous Product Replenishment (CPR) is a grocery industry innovation in which a supplier takes responsibility for its retailers' inventories. Retailers are very happy with CPR (50% inventory reductions are common), but suppliers have not experienced improvements in their operations. We report on how one supplier has used CPR to capture this benefit.

2) Analysis of Supply Contracts, Yehuda Bassok / Northwestern Univ, Dept of Ind Eng & Mgt Sci, Evanston, IL 60201, USA, Ravi Anupindi / Northwestern Univ, Kellogg Grad Sch of Mgt, Evanston, IL 60201, USA We describe various forms of supply contracts for purchase of components (single or multiple). Traditional inventory models can be considered as one type of contract in which the buyer is guaranteed a purchase process. However, other type of contracts are possible, e.g., minimum commitments, periodic commitments, price discounts, etc. Contracts which require buyer commitments are inherently restrictive. We study how buyers can retain some "flexibility" in such circumstances.

3) Assemble-To-Order Systems with Limited Capacities, Warren H. Hausman / Stanford Univ, Dept I E-E M, Stanford, CA 94305, USA, Ericka Schraner / Stanford Univ, Dept of O R, Stanford, CA 94305, USA For the case of highly customizable products we consider an assemble-to-order system that includes restrictions on production at each stage. An important issue is how to configure the inventories of all components so that the system responds adequately in time to customer demands. We present a periodic review inventory policy to address this question.

4) Variability Reduction Through Operations Reversal in Supply Chain Reengineering, Hau Leung Lee / Stanford Univ, Dept of I E - E M, Stanford, CA 94305, USA, Christopher S. Tang / U C L A, Grad Sch of Mgmt, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA Reversing two operations in a supply chain has been cited as one of the innovations to improve operational performance of the chain, usually as a result of reduction in the variability of production plans in such a supply chain. When would operations reversal be advisable, and when would it not? This paper seeks answers to these questions.

1) Order Pick Systems, Gunter P Sharp / Georgia Inst of Tech, Sch Indst/Sys Eng-Logstcs Inst, 765 Ferst Dr, Atlanta, GA 30332-0205, USA The tutorial is a blend of practical system design and operating guidelines and analytical performance and cost models, and is intended for system analysts, designers, and operators. Topics are: 1. Functional system description; 2. Conventional and automated technology: 3. Product data and order profile analysis; 4. Operations analysis; 5.Aisle-based systems; 6. Person-aboard systems analysis; 7.Strategies for horizontal and vertical carousel, miniload, and vertical S/R systems; 8. Additional strategies; 9. RF and light-aided pick systems, benefits survey; 10. Selection guidelines for equipment, storage, and retrieval methods.

1) A Comparison of Simple Lot-Streaming Techniques, Amar Ramudhin / Laval Univ, Sorcier, Pavillon J A Deseve, Sainte Foy, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4, Patrick Hamelin / Not Available. It has been shown that lot-streaming can dramatically improve the performance of jobshops or flowshops. We present some simple lot-streaming techniques for job shops that yield near optimal schedules.

2) Scheduling Models for Randomly Failing Equipments Inspection, Anis Chelbi / Univ of Laval, Dept Marketing, Quebec, G1K 7P4, Canada, Claude Gosselin / Univ of Laval, Dept Marketing, Quebec, G1K 7P4, Canada, Daoud Ait-Kadi / Laval Univ, Mech Engi, Quebec, G1K 7P4, Canada An optimal inspection strategy for randomly failing systems, whose state is known only through inspection, is defined as the inspection schedule minimizing the sum of inspection costs and the expected loss due to undetected failures. We review several inspection strategies together with their associated models and present a new inspection strategy based on more realistic assumptions. Comparative results show that our model produces improved inspection sequences.

3) Scheduling Jobs According to Difference in Processing Times, Samir Amiouny / Concordia Univ, Dept Mech Eng, H549-24, 1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1M8, Canada We present a family of fast heuristics for scheduling jobs on identical parallel machines. The heuristics are based on judicious grouping of "similar" jobs. We illustrate the case where the objective is to minimize maximum makespan and discuss the notion of similarity for other objectives.

4) Simultaneous Lot Sizing and Safety Stock Adjustment Using a Backlogging Model, Atle Nordli / Molde College, Box 308, Molde 6400, Norway, Anders Thorstenson / Molde College, Box 308, Molde 6400, Norway We consider discrete-time lot-sizing problems with dynamic, stochastic demand, where safety stock is needed as a buffer against uncertainty. In models with non-stationary demand lot sizes and safety stock have traditionally been determined independently. We propose a procedure where a backlogging model is used to adjust the safety stock. Computational results are presented.

1) Cutting Stock Problem with Contiguity, L. R. Khan / Victoria Univ of Tech, P O Box 14 428 M M C, Melbourne, Vic, 3000, Australia It is generally preferred that a particular size of itmes once started to produce, should be ina ll subsequent production runs until the demand is met. Ideally one can make a perfectly contiguos schedule, but it will push the trim-loss to unacceptable level. Optimizing both trim-loss and contiguity, compromise solutions are obtained by genetic algorithms.

2) Heuristics and Local Improvement Methods for Trim Optimization (Case Study), H. Schreck / M A S Gmb H, Bahnhofstrasse 39, D-82041, Deisenhofen, Germany We report about a study for one of our customers, who wanted to improve the structure of his inventory of basic material in order to reduce both inventory costs and trim loss. For doing so, heuristics have been developed which reduced trim loss and material in stock dramatically.

3) A Specification Language for Linear and Rectangular Cutting Stock, V Bukhvalova / St Petersburg State Univ, Fac of Math & Mech, Parashyutnaya St. 12, F 53, St. Petersburg, 197341, Russia This paper deals with algorithms for the rectangular cutting stock problem, which stepwise place a nonused item tightly to the border of a certain area, similar to a stair case. To formalize this approach, the geometric language DROL (Drawing Oriented Language) is used that has been developed by the author.

1) Power and Conflict in Marketing Channels, Nirmalya Kumar / Northwestern Univ, Kellogg Grad School of Mgmt, Evanston, IL 60208, USA, Lisa K. Scheer / Univ of Missouri, Columbia, Mo, USA, Jan-Benedict Steenkamp / Catholic Univ Leuven, de Beriot Straat 34, Leuven 3000, Belgium Two theories, bilateral deterrence and conflict spiral, make contradictory predictions about the effects of power on conflict in a dyadic relationship. Using data collected from automobile dealers in the United State and the Netherlands, we examine the validity of each theory for marketing channel relationships.

2) Competitive Patterns Between National Brands and Private Labels, William P. Putsis / Yale Univ, Yale School of Org & Mgmt, Box 208200, New Haven, CT 06520-8200, USA, Ravi Dhar / Yale Univ, Box 208200, New Haven, CT 06520-8200, USA, Narasimhan Srinivasan / Univ of Conneticut, Sch of Bus Admin, Storrs, CT 06209-2041, USA Managing and understanding the nature of the competition from private labels has become an increasingly important aspect of marketing branded products. However, very little empirical research exists that can assist national managers in determining an efficient response to this threat. The authors investigate differences in penetration patterns and response to marketing mix variables for private labels versus national brands across three dimensions: i) across categories, ii) across georgraphic markets and iii) across time. Data used are quarterly IRI market-level data across 65 geographic markets and 74 categories from 1988 through 1992.

3) Pricing Strategies for Retail Assortments, Steven Mark Shugan / Univ of Florida, 2030 NW 24th Av, Mktg Dept, Coll of Bus Admin, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA, Ramarao Desiraju / Univ of Delaware, Dept of Bus Admin, Newark, de 19716, USA We derive a model that provides pricing strategies for retail product lines. We show specific implications for the highest and lowest priced products. We test our model using data from competing retailers. Here, retailers carry partially overlapping lines. For example, consider Nikon cameras. Some models are carried by multiple retailers and others are not.

4) Alliances with Opportunism: Sustainable Distribution-Partnership Strategies with Transaction Costs, Anne T Coughlan / Kellogg Graduate Sch Mgt, Northwestern University, 2001 Sheridan Rd, Evanston, IL 602082001,

1) Longitudinal Attitude Measurement for Multiple Population Segments, James B. Wiley / Univ of Alberta, Mktg Dept, Fac of Busi, Edmonton, Ab, Canada T6G 2R6, Douglas L Maclachlan / Univ of Washington, Mackenzie Hall Dj-10, Seattle, WA 98195, USA A procedure is developed and illustrated for tracking (multiple indicator) attitude change in designated population segments. The method employs Kalman filtering to smooth scale boundaries (with over-time discounting) while estimating attitude parameter fluctuations between different segments and time periods.

2) Forecasting Capital Flows to Emerging Markets (Ems), Suhas L. Ketkar / C S First Boston Corp, New York, NY 1, USA Stabilization policies and structural reforms (pull factors) and the low interest rates in the industrial countries (push factors) have sustained capital flows to EMs. This paper forecasts the behavior of push and pull factors to conclude that EMs need not starve for capital, despite the impending global shortage of capital.

3) A Generic Scheme for Simultaneous Forecasting and Control, L. Keviczky / Comp & Automation Res Inst of H A S, Kende U 13-17, H-1111, Budapest, Hungary, Csilla Banyasz / Comp & Automation Res Inst of H A S, Kende U 13-17, H-1111, Budapest, Hungary In the paper a new generic structure is introduced which allows a very simple procedure to design optimal control systems when the forecasting and control errors are identical. This new scheme allows to avoid the explicit solution of a polynomial equation obtaining the transfer function elements of the optimal controller directly. The new design principle is quite general and applicable for nonminimum phase (inverse unstable) and delay time systems, too. The controller is easy to be implemented in computer controlled systems.

1) An Integer Concave Minimization Approach for the Minimum Concave Cost Capacitated Flow Problem on Networks, Nguyen Van Thoai / Univ of Trier, Dept of Math, D-54286 Trier, Germany, Reiner Horst / Univ of Trier, Dept of Math, D-54286 Trier, Germany Formulating the minimum concave cost capacitated network flow problem as an integer concave minimization problem, we establish finite branch and bound algorithms, in which the branching operation is the so-called integral rectangular partition and the bounding procedure is performed by the classical minimum linear cost flow problem on subnetworks. For the special case that the flow cost function is concave on a fixed number of arcs and linear on the others, we obtain a polynomial-time algorithm.

2) An Exact Algorithm for the Q A P using an L P - Based Lower Bound, Mauricio G.C. Resende / A T & T Bell Laboratories, 600 Mountain Av, Room 2D152, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA, K.G. Ramakrishnan / A T & T Bell Labs, 600 Mountain Ave., Room 2C-126, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA, Panos Pardalos / Univ of Florida, Dept of Ind And Sys Eng, 303 Weil Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA We describe an exact algorithm for solving quadratic assignmment problems. The method uses a lower bound based on linear programmmming to prune the enumeration tree. Computational results on the QAPLIB suite of test problems are given.

1) Extended Formulations of Uncapacited Fixed Charge Network Flow Problems, Peh Ng / Valdosta State Univ, Dept of Mathematics & C S, Valdosta, GA 31698, USA, Ronald L. Rardin / Purdue Univ, Ind Eng, Gris 234, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA In general, uncapacitated fixed charge network flow problem, (UF), is NP-Hard. However, previous research has shown that improved linear programming relaxations can be obtained by using extended formulations. In this paper, we develop a theory of extended formulations for (UF), showing how efficient and possibly compact extended formulations can be obtained.

2) A New Formulation To Time Minimising Constrained Multiple Traveling Salesman Problem, P. C. Borah / Dibrugarh Univ, Dept of Stat, Dibrugarh, Assam, India, S. Das / Dibrugarh Univ, Dept of Stat, Dibrugarh, Assam, India Many solution algorithms have been developed for multiple travelling salesman problem in respect of optimization of distance and cost between pairs of cities. But in many practical situations the travel time appears to be more important than cost or distance. Here a new formulation for constrained time minimizing m-TSP has been forwarded. The procedure is Lexicographic Search Approach. An effective lower bound is used to facilitate quick convergence to the optimal solution.

3) Reducing Inventory Costs by Order Splitting in the Sole Sourcing Environment, Chi Chiang / Nat'l Chiao Tung Univ, Dept of Mgt Sci, Tsinchu, Taiwan, 300, R O C, Wen-Chyuan Chiang / Univ of Tulsa, Dept of Q M And M I S, 600 S. College, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA In this paper, order splitting into multiple deliveries for the continuous review system is discussed. We show order splitting can significantly reduce the inventory carrying cost especially when the inter-arrival times between deliveries are optimally determined.

4) Facility Layout Design Problems Under Geometric Constraints, Wen-Chyuan Chiang / Univ of Tulsa, Dept of Q M And M I S, 600 S. College, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA, Panagiotis Kouvelis / Duke Univ, Fuqua School of Busi, Durham, NC 27706, USA The fixed-location and dimension-free assumptions of the Quadratic Assignment Problem are sometimes impractical for some of the layout design problems in which locations are not known a priori and constraints like size, shape, or even orientation of facilities are imposed. In this paper, we discuss the location of facilities with geometric features on a planer site.

5) Airline Schedule Perturbation Problem: The Ground Delay Program, Gang Yu / Univ of Texas-Austin, Dept of Msis, CBA 5.202, Austin, TX 78712, USA, Songjun Luo / Z S Associates, Evanston, IL 60201, USA Various programs such as Air Traffic Control (ATC), Traffic Flow Management (TFM) and Ground Delay Program (GDP) are offered by FAA in an attempt to use available airspace and airport capacity in an efficient manner providing the greatest possible access to system users in an equitable and accommodating fashion. In this talk, we present some results of our study supported by American Airlines on coping with the schedule perturbations caused by GDP.

1) Panel on Management of Technology Education (MOT) in the Pacific Rim: Challenges and Strategics, Robert Mason / Case Western Reserve Univ, 10900 Euclid Av, Cleveland, OH 44106 7235, USA, Jyoti Gupta / A I T, Sch of Mgmt, Thailand, Chiang Jong-Tsong / Nat'l Taiwan Univ, Taiwan, Dundar F Kocaoglu / Portland State Univ, Eng Mgt Program, Sch of Eng & Applied Sci, Portland, OR 97207-0751, USA, Poh-Kam Wong / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 0511, Singapore, Chen Yegin / Chinese Univ of Hong Kong, Fac of Bus Admin, Hong Kong This panel discussion is on the emerging trends and key challenges facing MOT-related educational programs by engineering and business schools in major universities in the Pacific Rim countries. The session will highlight the diverse management development needs for the countries in the Pacific Rim region. It will compare and contrast the distinctive strategic responses that the different programs have made in these countries with a view toward identifying "best practices", innovative pedagogic approaches and promising avenues for collaboration among the universities in the region.

1) "Best Compromise" Nodal Electricity Spot Pricing, Brendan Ring / Univ of Canterbury, Department of Management, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, New Zealand, E. Grant Read / Univ of Canterbury, Dept of Management, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, New Zealand Nodal electricity spot prices vary across time and space to reflect the changing economics of power systems. Determining consistent prices can be difficult due to uncertainty, limitations in power system modelling, imperfect dispatching, and conflicting incentives. A pricing framework for determining "best compromise" prices for these situations is presented.

2) Electricity Forwards with Double Call Options, Shmuel S. Oren / Univ of Calif-Berkeley, Dept of I E O R, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA The talk will introduce a forward electricity contract bundled with a call option that can be excercised either at the time of delivery or at a specific time prior to the scheduled delivery. The two strike prices for the call can be different. It is shown that this instrument emulates priority service contracts with early notification option.

1) Toward a Method for Acquiring Business System Ontologies, P. Benjamin / Texas A&M Univ, Knowledge-Based Systems, College Station, TX 77840, USA, C. Menzel / Texas A&M Univ, Knowledge-Based Systems, College Station, TX 77840, USA, J. Mayer / Texas A&M Univ, Knowledge-Based Systems, College Station, TX 77840, USA The focus of this paper is on the characterization of a scientific method for acquiring, structurng and maintaining Business System ontologies. An ontology capture method is essential to developing practical Business System ontologies because it facilitates the direct capture of business system knowledge by practitioners within the application domain. The proposed ontology capture method includes: a graphical language to support conceptual ontology analysis; a structured text language for detailed ontology characterization and a systematic procedure that provides guidelines for effective ontology capture.

2) Analyzing Long-Chain Rules Extracted from a Learning Classifier System, Takao Terano / Tsukuba Univ, Gssm, 3-29-1, Otsuka, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 112, Japan, Kazuyuki Yoshinaga / Tsukuba Univ, Grad Sch Sys Mgmt, 3-29-1, Otsuka, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 112, Japan This paper presents a method that extracts effective chunks of knowledge (long-chain rules) frequently used by a Learning Classifier System (LCS) in a dynamic environment. The key idea of the method is that

1) keep track of sequences of rule executions and the objective function values, and

2) use a recursive algorithm to extract the effective chunks from the sequences. We have shown the effectiveness of the method by shortest path examples.

3) Use of Group Support Systems for Intelligent Explanation Acquisition & Validation, Tung Lai Lai / Nanyang Tech Univ, Sch of Acct & Bus, Nanyang Av, Singapore 2263, Singapore, Jasbir Dhaliwal / Singapore Natl Univ, Singapore, Singapore Group Support Systems (GSS) have been shown to improve the satisfaction and performance of multi-user decision making processes. This study describes how they can be used to acquire knowledge from multiple domain experts for building and validating the explanation facilities of expert systems. Results suggest that the use of the parallel communication and group memory GSS tools enable process gains, such as getting more complete information, synergy, stimulation and learning to be realized. As well, the fact that the domain experts worked together instead of separately reduced production blocking and cognitive inertia since they could build upon each other's comments...

4) Validating Rule Based Systems Via Genetic Programming Techniques, Kaoru Kobayashi / Tsukuba Univ, Gssm, 3-29-1, Otsuka, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 112, Japan, Takao Terano / Tsukuba Univ, Gssm, 3-29-1, Otsuka, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo 112, Japan This paper presents a method to improve the performance of rule-based systems with CF values by Genetic Programming techniques (GPs). The key ideas are that

1) keep track of traces of rule executions;

2) apply GPs to the traces to get better ones;

3) then, improve the corresponding CF values of rules in the trace; and

4) have an improved rules-bases. This paper describes the outline of the method and its experimental results.

5) Problem Solving Using Object Oriented Programming, Claude Comair / Osaka Univ, 5275 Granville St, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6M 3B9 The paper presents a parallel between the principles of Object Oriented Programming (OOP) and problem solving methods. The paper also describes how OOP increase productivity, enhances team work, and allows the reuse and expansion of existing code and libraries. This results in cheaper, safer, portable, and upgradable code. It is for these reasons that OOP has become the choice of major corporations to produce their operating systems and application software.

1) The New Management Pradigms: On the Folly of Changing A, C to Z While Hoping for B, Swee C. Goh / Univ of Ottawa, Fac of Admin, 136 Jean-Jacques Lussier, Ottawa,Ontario, K1N 6N5, Canada This paper reviews the recent growth in proposed new management paradigms and evaluates their relative success and efficacy in solving the problems and challenges facing managers today. Integrating research from the change management literature, some suggestions are made as to how managers can more effectively utilize and implement these new paradigms in their organizations.

2) Knowledge and Organizational Competitiveness: Programs and Trends, Ronald Greenwood / G M I Eng & Mgmt Inst, Flint, MI 48504, USA With scientific knowledge doubling every decade, organizations are hard pressed to develop a planned concentrated effort to gain knowledge to remain competitive. This paper discusses a variety of programs and current trends in major business organizations to hopefully assure knowledge success.

3) Portable Offices: Curse or Blessing?, Linda Duxbury / Carleton Univ, School of Business, 1125 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa,Ontario, K1S 5B6, Canada Results of a study investigating computer-supported mobile work and supplemental work at home (SWAH) will be presented. Issues addressed include: computer and communication technologies being used to support work at home and outside the office, employee perception of benefits and drawbacks, and challenges faced. Impact of gender and type of technology on these issues is also discussed.

4) Part-time Work: A Wave of the Future?, Natalie Lam / Univ of Ottawa, Fac of Admin, 136 Jean-Jacques, Lussier, Ottawa, Canada K1N 6N5 Part-time work is an increasingly important phenomemon in industrialized nations as organizations strive to maintain a flexible work force. This paper discusses some governing parameters that affect utilization of part-timers, and considers issues of costs and benefits, training, organizational policies, productivity, morale and motivation, and other factors in determining the optimal mix of full- and part-timers.

1) On the Efficiency of Branch-and-Bound Methods for the R C P S P, Erik Demeulemeester / K U Leuven, Naamsestraat 69, 3000 Leuven, Belgium, Willy Herroelen / K U Leuven, Naamsestraat 69, 3000 Leuven, Belgium In previous research (Demeulemeester & Herroelen, Man. Sci., 38,#1

2) an efficient depth-first branch-and-bound procedure was developed for the resource-constrained project scheduling problem (R C P S P). The choice of a depth-first strategy was mainly dictated by memory constraints of D O S-programming. Having changed to 32-bit programming, results will be presented concerning the choice between different branching strategies.

2) Project Scheduling Under Resource and Mode Identity Constraints, Andreas Schirmer / Univ of Kiel, Inst of B W L, Wilhelm - Seelig - Platz 1, D-24118 Kiel, Germany, Andreas Drexl / Univ Kiel, Inst of B W L, Wilhelm-Seelig-Platz 1, D-24118 Kiel, Germany, Frank Salewski / Univ Kiel, Inst F B W L, Wilhelm-Seelig-, Platz 1, D-24118 Kiel, Germany The presented model is a generalization of multi-mode project scheduling models where subsets of jobs have to be processed in exactly one of the available modes (mode identity). We describe a regret-based biased random sampling approach directly tailored to the problem structure together with the results of an extensive computational study.

3) Hierarchical Approach to Timetabling: Models, Genetic and Semi-Greedy Algorithms, Frank Salewski / Univ Kiel, Inst F B W L, Wilhelm-Seelig-, Platz 1, D-24118 Kiel, Germany, Andreas Drexl / Univ Kiel, Inst of B W L, Wilhelm-Seelig-Platz 1, D-24118 Kiel, Germany A new approach to timetabling is introduced which distinguishes two levels: first, the assignment of teachers to lessons takes place; second, the lessons are scheduled. The models are closely related to the general assignment problem and to nonpreemptive resource-constrained project scheduling problems, respectively. We present the model as well as genetic and semi-greedy algorithms for the second level.

4) Loom Scheduling for Textile Factories, Paolo Serafini / Univ of Udine, Via Imaggio 35, Pieris, 34075, Italy This scheduling model is derived from the problem of scheduling looms. Jobs may be independently split over several machines and preemption is allowed. Deadlines are specified for each job. Minimizing maximum weighted tardiness is polynomial. Minimizing maximum tardiness is strongly polynomial in case of uniform machines via network flow models.

1) Credit Scoring of Agricultural Loans by Neural Networks, Sureshh Baral / South Carolina State Univ, Dept of Bus Admin, 300 College St N E, Orangeburg, SC 29117, USA This study presents back propagation, radial basis function networks, and probabilstic neural networks models for credit scoring of agricultural loans. The performance of these models have been compared. The problems in developing these models and the methods used to overcome them have been discussed.

2) Binary Trees and Neural Networks: A Nexus and Application to Securities Markets, Kenneth O. Cogger / Univ of Kansas, Sch of Bus, Lawrence, KS 66045-2003, USA The mathematical equivalence of feed-forward neural networks, adaptive logic networks, and the group method of data handling is described, clarifying their properties and giving new insights into their implementation. We demonstrate their remarkable success in ex ante prediction of stock market turning points.

3) Further Advances in the Neural Network Approach to Developing Country Debt Rescheduling Prediction, Kenneth R. Gordon / Univ of Colorado At Boulder, Col of Bus & Admn, Campus Box 419, Boulder, CO 80309-0419, USA, James P. Kelly / Univ of Colorado, College of Bus & Admin, Campus Box 419, Boulder, CO 80309-0419, USA This paper demonstrates the application of NN as a viable methodological approach to assessing country risk by classifying borrowers as reschedulers or non-reschedulers of external indebtedness. Several theoretical advances in NN modeling are suggested and implemented.

4) The Sensitivity Properties of a Neural Net Model for Market Entry Timing, Brenda Mak / Indiana Univ Kokomo, Business & Economics, Kokomo, IN 46904-9003, USA, Robert W. Blanning / Vanderbilt Univ, Owen Grad Sch of Mgmt, Nashville, TN 37203, USA Neural networks predict the output consequences of a set of input variables, but they usually do not provide any explanatory information. We develop methods for performing sensitivity estimates with neural net models and illustrate these methods in the context of a model for market entry timing.

1) Inside Simulation Software: How it Works and Why it Matters, Thomas J. Schriber / Univ of Michigan, Comp & Info Sys, Sch of Busi Admin, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 1234, USA This talk provides a grounding on how discrete event simulation works, in order for practitioners to build models more confidently, use verification tools effectively, and model complex system logic correctly. This is done by describing alternate entity states, the use of lists of entities in various states, and the use of algorithms to manage lists.

2) Modeling Using Control Flow Graphs, Robert G Sargent / 439 Link Hall, Dept of Ind Engr, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244, Different Control Flow Graph Models of various systems for discrete event simulation will be presented. The purpose of the different models is to illustrate various ways of modeling using Control Flow Graphs. Also, how HI-MASS (Hierarchical Modeling and Simulation System) can be used for Control Flow Graph modeling will be discussed.

3) Contrasting Military and Manufacturing Simulation Requirements, Arnold H. Buss / Naval Postgraduate School, Operations Research Dept, Monterey, CA 93943-5000, USA Support of military operations and planning places special requirements on simulation models and modeling strategies. This talk contrasts these requirements with those that are commonly encountered in traditional manufacturing applications.

4) Two Models of a Discrete Part Manufacturing Line, Russell R. Barton / Penn State Univ, Dept of Indust & Mgmt Sys Eng, 207 Hammond Bldg, University Park, PA 16802, USA, David Barreto Gonzalez / Penn State Univ, 207 Hammond Bldg, University Park, PA 16802, USA This talk compares and contrasts two models of an engine block manufacturing process. The process network modeling approach (GPSS, SIMAN, SLAM) is compared with the event graph modeling approach (SIGMA). The strengths and weaknesses of each approach are discussed for this particular application.

1) Dynamic Quality Management, Johannes Geiger / Univ of Zurich, Dept of Computer Sci, Ch 8057 Zurich, Switzerland, Hubert Hofmann / Ifi Winterthurerstr.190, Zurich 8057, Switzerland

2) The Impact of Software Process Modelling and CASE Toos on Software Quality, Matthew Lee / City Univ of Hong Kong, Dept of I S, 83 Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong Starting with a review of contemporary thinking in the area of software quality management, this paper analyses the complex relationships between software product and process quality on the one hand and process modelling and CASE tools on the other hand, resulting in an integrated model of software quality. It is argued that CASE tools and software process modelling are critical in improving software quality.

3) Quality Movement Challenges of Next LAP, Kishok Apte / Info Tech Inst, 71, Science Park Dr, Singapore, 0511, Singapore The following trends are changing the structure of the software industry: Competition from low cost countries, rising expectation for reliablitity, and larger and more complex software. We discuss how to gear quality systems to meet the objective.

4) Quality Dimensions: View From Two Angles, Margaret Tan / Natl Univ of Singapore, Dept Dec Sciences, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Xie Min / Ntl Univ of Singapore, Dept of Indust & Sys Eng, Singapore The problem with implementing quality in software development is compounded when software quality can take many forms and features. A survey study was conducted in Singapore to understand the concept and the multi-faceted dimensions of software quality both from the systems designers and the end users perspectives.

1) A Value-Added Approach to Hierarchical Productivity Analysis, Per J. Agrell / Linkoping Inst of Tech, Dept of Production Econ, Linkoping, S-581 83, Sweden, Joakim Wikner / Linkoping Inst of Tech, Dept of Production Econ, Linkoping, S-581 83, Sweden An activity decomposition methodology with theoretical foundation in the principles of activity control and stated focus of interest in the enterprise value-chain is presented. The proposed methodology offers a systematic way of evaluating enterprise productivity by aggregating sublevel operational performance measures with respect to the actual scope of control. The sublevel measures, based on the amount of value added in the activity, are in themselves indicative of relevant sublevel productivity.

2) Spatial Infrastructure and Productivity in Sweden, Nikias Sarafoglou / Mid Sweden Univ, S-85170 Sundsvall, Sundsvall, Sweden, Arne M. Anderson / Gothenburg Univ, Sweden, Ingvar Holmberg / Gothenburg Univ, Sweden, Olle Ohlsson / Gothenburg Univ, Sweden Infrastructure consists of durable resurces that are classified as "collective goods" generating external effects. The purpose of this paper is to analyse how spatial infrastructure may influence the industrial productivity in Sweden by utilising two complementary approaches: data envelopment analysis and a production function approach. These approaches are applied to a cross-section data set of countries and A-regions in Sweden. The data set contains infrastructure as well as industry specific variables.

3) Interorganizational Relationships and Technology Diffusion, Mokhtar Amami / College Militaire Royal de Saint-Jean, Dept of Admn Sci, Richelain, Quebec, Canada Joj 1Ro Technology can be diffused vertically, among primes, subcontractors, and suppliers. The aims of this research are to:

1) gather data and informaiton on 30 firms characterized by high technology exchange and by a medium-high focus on technological innovation and quality;

2) develop a technology diffusion model and analyze information cost and the use of technology transfer channels along the product life cycle: R and D - Design - Purchasing - Manufacturing - Distribution - Product and Customer Support; and

3) highlight how new interorganizational relationships are facilitating technology transfers and shaping competitiveness.

Monday 16:15-17:30

1) Computer Interactive System for the Self-control of Diabetes Mellitus, Seizaburro Arita / Kansai Medical Univ, Osaka, Hirakata City, 579, Japan We propose a supporting system for the self-control of diabetes mellitus with the communication system between physicians and patients using a fuzzy inference based on the daily data such as the blood, sugar, foods, exercise, degree of stress, etc.

2) Management of Health Care Information: A Problem in Internationalization, Richard F. Walters / Univ California - Davis, Dept Comp Sci, Davis, CA 95616-8562, USA

3) Health and Health Care: The Plan and its Design, Yin Seong Ho / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Info Sys & Comp Sci, Kent Ridge, Singapore, 0511, Singapore Health for all is accepted generally as a guiding principle in many health programs. Building and maintaining adequate expenditures, both as an investment and a consumption sector on health and related areas of human development call for proper planning and design of a health program.

4) A Segmented Market Study for Ethical Pharmaceuticals in India, Peter Wilden / Ferring Arzneimilttel Gmbh, Wittland 11, D24109 Kiel, Germany, Holger Hinz / Fachhochschule Kiel, Fb Wirtschaft, Zum Wasserbloecken 10, D24107 Kiel, Germany Compared to Europe, the United States and Japan, the Indian market for ethical pharmaceuticals is underlying very special conditions and rules. The paper shows the results of empirical investigation of this market within a certain, specialized segment and implications for the introduction of ethical pharmaceuticals in India.

1) An Algorithm for International Portfolio Selection and Optimal Currency Hedging, Markus Rudolf / Univ of St Gallen, Switzerland, Heinz Zimmermann / Univ of St Gallen, Switzerland An algorithm is developed which allows to investigate a series of methodological questions about optimal international diversification and the associated problem of currency hedging. The model allows for a joint optimization of markets and currency exposures; hedging is done through forward contracts; and various investment restrictions which limit unconstraint diversification in practice can be included. The algorithm which is used to solve the international asset allocation problem subject to these constraints is based on the critical line method developed by Markowitz (1956 NRLQ) and elaborated by Rudolf (1994). The model is able to demonstrate the impact of various restrictions on the efficiency of portfolios as well as the comparative performance of widely used (but inefficient) hedging strategies.

2) Generating Expected Return Predictors for Stocks and Large-Scale Portfolio Optimization, George B. Dantzig / Stanford Univ, Op Res Dept, Stanford, CA 94305, USA, Gerd Infanger / Stanford Univ, Dept of Oper Res, Stanford, CA 94305, USA We use large-scale portfolio optimization techniques to obtain efficient portfolios that trade off expected returns versus risk. The performance of these portfolios depends to a large extent on the quality of the expected return predictors used in the model. We present a novel approach based on an application of the Neyman-Pearson Lemma for generating such predictors. Our approach combines several signals (e.g., fundamental data) to obtain a ranking of various stocks in an optimal way. Numerical results from our implementation, the DIA equity portfolio optimizer, are presented.

3) Gains from Diversifying Into Real Estate: Portfolio Returns Based on the Dynamic Investment Model, Nils H. Hakansson / Univ of Calif, Berkeley, Haas Sch of Bus, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA This paper compares the investment policies and returns for portfolios of stocks and bonds with and without up to three categories of real estate, in a domestic and global setting, with and without correction for data "smoothing." The gains from adding real estate to U.S. financial assets were large.

1) Structural Adaptation with Use of Communication Technologies, Laku Chidambaram / Univ of Hawaii, College of Bus Admin, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA, Magid Igbaria / Univ of Hawaii, College of Bus Admin, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA We examine how behavior and outcomes evolve over time with repeated use of advanced communication technologies. We develop a model--based on Adaptive Structuration Theory--which suggests that repeated use and re-use will transform communication technologies to the extent that even "lean" media may permit the transmission of rich information.

2) Nonblocking Packet Switch Throughput Under Nonuniform Traffic, J. Hun Park / Univ of Minnesota, 1014 27th Av SE #E, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA We examine internally nonblocking packet switches with input and output buffers. Head of line blocking is a key congestion phenomenon. The throughput can be improved by increasing the output switching capacity. We suggest an analytical model to obtain the maximum switch throughput when the traffic pattern is nonuniform.

3) Key Issues in EDI Management: A Survey of Japanese Corporations in Australia, Akemi Takeoka Chatfield / Univ of New South Wales, Australia Grad Sch of Mgt, P O Box 1, Kensington N S W, 2033, Australia This paper investigates key strategic management issues of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) among Japanese corporations operating in Australia. A list of the key issues of technology management compiled from this survey are compared with results reported in similar studies in the USA.

4) Issues in Mobile Computing, Vijay D. Deokar / Cal Poly Univ - Pomona, 3801 W Temple Av, Pomona, CA 91768, USA, J. Michael Klosky / Cal Poly Univ - Pomona, 3801 W Temple Av, Pomona, CA 91768, USA, Ward D. Testerman / Cal Poly Univ - Pomona, 3801 W Temple Av, Pomona, CA 91768, USA World-wide demand for the mobile computing is expected to increase dramatically in the next five years. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the technology, regulations, standards, costs, and the management issues related to the mobile technology.

5) Intelligent Bandwidth Allocation in Satellite Networks, Anthony Ephremides / Univ of Maryland, Elec Eng Dept, College Park, MD 20742, USA, Sonjai Gupta / Univ of Maryland, Elec Eng Dept, College Park, MD 20742, USA This paper describes a dynamic method for allocating channels for voice connections as well as for data transmission among users of a satellite system. The method relies on theoretical motivation and has been tried on NASA's advanced communication technology satellite. The results demonstrate the superior performance of this method compared to traditional ones.

1) Voice and Data Services in CDMA PCS Systems, Edward G Tiedemann / Qualcomm Inc, 6455 Lusk Blvd, San Diego, CA 92121, USA, Ephi Zehavi / Qualcomm, Inc, Matam Center, Building 6/2, 2nd Floor, P O Box 719, Haifa, 31000, Israel The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has auctioned spectrum for a new telecommunications service in the 1.8 to 2.0 GHz band called PCS. This paper describes the major technical aspects of the first version of the CDMA standard for PCS, which is derived from the TIA/EIA/IS-95-A cellular standard. This first version supports a 14400 bps family and a 9600 bps family of data rates, several different speech coders, asynchronous data, packet data, facsimile, and short messaging.

2) The I B M Intelligent Communications Service Platform, Colin Harrison / I B M Corp, T J Watson Research Ctr, P O Box 704, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, USA, David Levine / I B M, T J Watson Research Ctr, P O Box 704, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, USA, Sueann Nichols / I B M Personal Software, Products Division, 1000 NW 51st St, Boca Raton, FL 33429, USA I B M is developing a communications and information service using network-based intelligence which provides telephone, E-mail and Fax messaging, paging and access to enterprise and third-party information services. The service provides integrated delivery of information to users and enables users to personalize the service behavior using intelligent agents.

3) New Internet Services: Mobility, Multicast, Resource Reservation, Yakov Rekhter / I B M Corp/T J Watson Res Ctr, P.O. Box 704, H3-D40, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, USA Some of the new services that are in the process of being introduced in the Internet: mobility, multicast, and resource reservation are discussed. We will also look at the interaction between these new services, and outline some of the outstanding issues.

4) Intelligent Transportation Systems - An Overview, Denos C. Gazis / I B M Research, P O Box 218, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, USA, Colin Harrison / I B M Corp, T J Watson Research Ctr, P O Box 704, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598, USA The concept of Intelligent Transportation Systems involves the use of advanced compter and communications technology in order to improve the use of the transportation infrastructure, reduce congestion and energy waste, and improve mobility and productivity. We shall review the salient features of I T S, and discuss some ongoing I T S experiments.

1) Solver Selection in the Object-Oriented Method Base System M: A Constraint-Based Approach, Peter Becker / Tuebingen Univ, Wilhelmstr 26, Tubingen, 72074, Germany

2) Model Evaluation Via the Internet, Rudolf Muller / Humboldt Univ Zu Berlin, Inst Fur Wirtschaftsinformatik, Spandauer Str 1, D-10178 Berlin, Germany, W. Bradley Rubenstein / Goldman-Sachs, J. Aron & Co, 85 Broad St, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10004, USA, Peter Schmidt / Humboldt-Univ Zu Berlin, Inst Fur Wirtshcaftsinformatik, Spandauer Str 1, D-10178 Berlin, Germany We present a simple method server that provides world-wide access to models via the internet using World-Wide-Web servers and clients. The method servers can be composed and evaluated by integrating them in so-called Eigenmodels in the model management system Ypsilon.

3) On Distributing Decision Support Services Over the Internet, Hemant K Bhargava / Code Sm/Bh, Naval Postgraduate School, 555 Dyer Rd, Monterey, CA 93943,, R Krishnan / Not Available.

1) Requirements Traceability in Systems Development, Balasubramaniam Ramesh / Naval Postgraduate School, Code Sm/Ra, Dept of Sys Mgt, Monterey, CA 93943, USA Requirements traceability, or linking requirements to artifacts in the systems development process, is important for developing high quality systems. Based on an empirical study involving various stakeholders involved with the development of large, complex systems, a model for traceability has been developed. This model and issues in implementing traceability are discussed.

2) An AHP Approach to Evaluate Alternate Solutions During Requirements Analysis, Ramu Kannan / Coppin State College, Dept of Mgmt Sci, 2500 West North Av, Baltimore, MD 21216, USA At the end of requirement analysis phase of the SDLC, the systems analyst selects the most appropriate solution from a set of alternatives. The criteria that are normally used for this selection include cost, time, user-satisfaction, technical feasibility, and personnel availability. This paper applies AHP to this multicriteria problem. It combines the subjective and quantitative factors to compute a composite score.

3) A DSS for Bank Credit Evaluation Under Risk, Gee Kin Yeo / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Info Sys & Comp Sci, NUS, Kent Ridge, Singapore 0511, Singapore, Wen Xuan Ding / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Info Sys & Comp Sci, NUS, Kent Ridge, Singapore 0511, Singapore The DSS proposed in this paper includes a rule base, a model base and a dynamic process that triggers appropriate rules to select models to use upon different market signals. In the model base, we suggest models performing judgemental analysis to help a senior bank manager in loan processing that involves customer creditability evaluation and risks appraisal.

4) A CST-Based Framework for Information Systems Design, Joseph K K Ho / Information Sys Design Ltd, M/F 33 San Shing Av, Sheung Shui N T, Hong Kong The diversity of the research interests and approaches employed in the field of Management Information Systems (MIS) is a matter of concern to the MIS community. This paper reviews two ways to synthesize various Information Systems Design (ISD) approaches and argues for the superiority of developing a meta-framework of ISD based on Critical Systems Thinking (CST). Such a framework is multi-perspective and can accommodate the idea of scientific progress without being challenged as holding a monistic (and restrictive) view of science. A pluralistic view on the notion of scientific progress is also put forward in this paper.

1) Productivity Impact of Telecommuting for Government Manager, Charles Grantham / I S D W, 725 Washington St Ste 210, Oakland, CA 94607, USA, Ceil R. Tilney / I S D W, 725 Washington St Ste 210, Oakland, CA 94607, USA This paper reports the results of a field test of telecommuting in metropolitan government in a U.S. Pacific Rim state. The results of the study indicate that telecommuting significantly increases productivity for workers over an extended period. The implications of these findings are discussed.

2) Productivity Among Distance Workers, Charles Grantham / I S D W, 725 Washington St Ste 210, Oakland, CA 94607, USA, Ceil R. Tilney / I S D W, 725 Washington St Ste 210, Oakland, CA 94607, USA This paper reports the results of an AT&T sponsored field study of 64 distance workers. One third of the sample are employees who work across the Pacific Rim, including employees of Asian firms working in the U.S. Firms. The study covers worker and manager motives for engaging in distance work, and describes how distance work showcases IT management's role.

3) Telecommuting and its Support: A Comprehensive Overview, Pien Wang / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 0511, Singapore, Efraim Turban / Nanyang Tech Univ, Nanyang Av, Singapore 2263, Singapore New developments in IT during the last few years accelerated the spread of telecommuting in several western countries. In some cases telecommuting helped organizations to reengineer themselves. Most research on telecommuting was done on one or a few of its aspects. This paper provides a holistic, unbiased overview of telecommuting, and a comprehensive look at the current use of IT to support telecommuting.

1) Impacts of GSS on Participation and Influence Behavior, Moez Limayem / Univ of Lavel, Dept of Info Sys, Fac of Mgt, Quebec, Que, G1K 7P4, Canada, Marshall Scott Poole / Univ of Minnesota, Dept of Speech Comm, 9 Pleasant St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA, Mohamed Khalifa / Concordia Univ, Dept of Info Sys, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3G 1M8 Studies investigating the impacts of group support systems (GSS) on members participation in the decision making process have yielded mixed findings. The purpose of this paper is to attempt to resolve these inconsistencies by reviewing the underlying relevant theories and by distinguishing the concept of particpation from the concept of influence.

2) Group Meetings in Cyberspace, Sajda Quershi / London Sch of Econ, Info Sys, Houghton St, London Wc2A, U K The purpose of this paper is to address the social and technical factors affecting the role of electronic communication technology in providing support for decision making and problem solving among a group of people who cannot meet face to face.

3) The Impact of Public Screen on Brainstorming Performance, Marie-Christine Roy / Laval Univ, Sainte-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4, Moez Limayem / Univ of Lavel, Dept of Info Sys, Fac of Mgt, Quebec, Que, G1K 7P4, Canada, Stephane Gauvin / Laval Univ, Sainte-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4 Common belief has been that a public screen used in brainstorming tasks would facilitate idea sharing and stimulate idea generation. We present results of a study indicating that constant public screen access may be detrimental to performance. It is also shown that presenting ideas at the end of the session may be more beneficial.

4) Group Expertise, Jean Bedard / Laval Univ, SC Administration, Quebec, G1K 7P4, Canada Traditionally, expertise has been studied at the level of the individual. In today's organization, it is difficult for an individual to develop a large knowledge base about its domain. This paper introduces the notion of group expertise and describes how it is applied in accounting firms.

1) Busy Periods in Infinite Server Queues, Liming Liu / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, c/o Dept Ind Eng, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong Busy periods in infinite server queues have applications in a number of areas besides being of theoretical interest itself. A particular important application is to use it as a means to estimate the rate of convergence to stationary of multi-server queues. In this paper, we first develop results for the busy period distributions for a general class of infinite server queues. We then show how to use these results to estimate the rate of convergence in the corresponding finite multi-server queues.

2) Equilibrium Threshold Strategies: The Case of Queues with Priorities, Moshe Haviv / Univ of Sydney, Dept of Econ, Sydney, N S W, 2006, Australia, Refael Hassin / Tel Aviv Univ, Dept of Stat & Op Res, Ramat Aviv, 69978, Israel We investigate the phenomenon that an action is more attractive to an individual, the more it is selected by others, in a queueing model in which two priority levels can be purchased. In particular, we compute all of the Nash equilibrium strategies (pure and mixed) of the threshold type.

3) Single Server Queue with Memorable Service Rates, Ping Yang / Bell Northern Research, Inc., Richardson, TX 75083, USA, Yixin Zhu / Bell Northern Research, Inc., Richardson, TX 75083, USA, Seshu Madhavapaddy / Bell Northern Research, Inc., Richardson, TX 75083, USA We study a single-server queueing system in which the service rates depend on the number of customers that have been served since the beginning of the current busy period. The problem is motivated by the observation of the nonlinearality of the processing speed of the high performance chips in the telephone switches. We obtained the distributions of the busy period and the waiting time respectively. A computational agorithm is developed to determine the stationary queue length distribution.

4) Rate of Convergence of the Fluid Approximation for Generalized Jackson Networks, Hong Chen / Univ of British Columbia, 2053 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada It is known that a generalized open Jackson queueing network after appropriate scaling (in both time and space) converges almost surely to a fluid network under the uniform topology. Under the Skorohod J1 topology, we show that the distance between the scaled queue length process of the queuing network and the fluid level process of the corresponding fluid network converges to zero in probability at an exponential rate.

1) An Integrated Model for Optimal Optimal Contract Selection and Material Control, Naren Agrawal / Santa Clara Univ, D I S Dept, Santa Clara, CA 95053, USA, Morris Cohen / Univ Pennsylvania, Wharton School, O P I M, Philadelphia, PA 19174, USA We model a firm assembling multiple products from components which are purchased from external suppliers in an environment of demand uncertainty. The model is used to compare the costs and benefits of long and short term contracts for purchasing the components. Managerial implicatins of contract selection policies are presented.

2) Backup Arrangements in Fashio Buying - The Value of Upstream Flexibility, Ananth V Iyer / Univ of Chicago, Grad Sch of Business, 1101 East 58th St, Chicago, IL 60637, USA, Gary Eppen / Univ of Chicago, Grad Sch of Business, 1101 East 58th St, Chicago, IL 60637, USA This paper focuses on purchase agreements with a backup provision. We consider agreements that allow the purchaser to backup a fixed percentage of the initial order. We collect detailed data from a catalog company, model the demand, provide an inventory model that generates the optimal purchaser inventory policy, run a parallel experiment to demonstrate the value of the model and show the effect of ad hoc heuristics currently used at the company. The results show that even small fractions of backup can generate considerable value for the purchaser.

3) Issues in Purchasing Strategy with Competition, Haresh Gurnani / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Ismt, Clearwater Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Ramesh Kini / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Clearwater Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong We consider multiple suppliers supplying a critical intermediate product to different firms. The end-products range from being indentical (perfect substitutes) to completely differentiated. Suppliers are accordingly, more or less, exposed to forces influencing final demand. Also, a second dimension (for eg. quality) could affect demand at the downstream and upstream end. Optimal price/volume decisions are obtained.

4) Sharing the Benefits of Supplier Process Improvement, Charles Corbett / INSEAD, Bd de Constance, Fontainebleau Cedex, 77305, France Firms are increasingly expecting their suppliers to move towards just-in time deliveries. Many buyers are not powerful enough to simply impose just in-time delivery, and will need to compensate the supplier for the additional costs incurred or for the investments in process improvement needed to enable just-in-time delivery. The issue we focus on is how, under such circumstances, the buyer can share in the benefits of the supplier's process improvement. Three specific issues are considered: the payment terms, the dependence of the supplier on the buyer, and the buyer's ability to commit to a contract. Such issues, although not traditionally considered in inventory models, can have a significant impact on the type of contract offered by the buyer and the resulting inventory policy or delivery frequency chosen by the supplier.

1) Order Pick Systems, Gunter P Sharp / Georgia Inst of Tech, Sch Indst/Sys Eng-Logstcs Inst, 765 Ferst Dr, Atlanta, GA 30332-0205, USA The tutorial is a blend of practical system design and operating guidelines and analytical performance and cost models, and is intended for system analysts, designers, and operators. Topics are: 1. Functional system description; 2. Conventional and automated technology: 3. Product data and order profile analysis; 4. Operations analysis; 5.Aisle-based systems; 6. Person-aboard systems analysis; 7.Strategies for horizontal and vertical carousel, miniload, and vertical S/R systems; 8. Additional strategies; 9. RF and light-aided pick systems, benefits survey; 10. Selection guidelines for equipment, storage, and retrieval methods.

1) Scheduling Melt-Shop Operations in Rapid Casting Factories, Andre Gascon / Univ Laval, Fac Science Admin, Sainte-Foy,Quebec, G1K 7P4, Canada, Benoit Montreuil / Univ Laval, Pavillon J A de Seve, Sainte-Foy, Quebec, G1K 7P4, Canada This talk addresses the problem of planning the production of a casting facility. First, the general problem is described, then the melter-reverb operations are dicussed in detail. A heuristic procedure to schedule the melter-reverb operations is introduced. All the data used and the general environment of the problem are based on a real industrial application.

2) Casting Operations in an Aluminium Foundry, Wilson Price / Univ Laval, Dept Oper & Dec Sys, Pavillon Palasis-Prince, Sainte-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4, Marc Gravel / Univ of Quebec, Dept of Info & Mathematics, 555 Univ Blvd, Chicoutimi Que, Canada G7H 2B1, Marc Levesque / Univ Laval, Dept de Genie Mecanique, Sainte-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4 This paper describes a scheduling problem that arises in the casting operations in the manufacture of aluminium ingots. Orders may, in principle, be processed in any order, but sequence-dependent setup times encourage careful scheduling. Equipment costs are such that bottlenecks cannot easily be eliminated by capacity acquisition. The authors describe the problem and an algorithmic approach.

3) An Object-Oriented Tool Kit for On-line Scheduling, Amar Ramudhin / Laval Univ, Sorcier, Pavillon J A Deseve, Sainte Foy, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4, Philippe Marier / Not Available. We discuss the implementation of an object-oriented tool kit for real-time job scheduling. We briefly present the tool fit and then highlight the difficulties and results obtained in a practical implementation.

4) An Efficient Algorithm for Sequencing Automobiles in the Painting Shop, Hyekyou Park / Univ of Ulsan, Dept of Mgt, 29 Mugeodong, Manku, Ulsan, Kyoungnam, 680-749, Korea, Wonjoon Choi / Univ of Ulsan, Dept of I E, 29 Mugeodong, Manku, Ulsan, Kyoungnam, 680-749, Korea This paper deals with the algorithm for determining the input and output sequences of automobiles in the painting shop of the automobile industry in order to minimize the changeover costs associated with changing colors in the painting booth. The algorithm selects the input lane for the incoming automobiles and the output lane for the leaving automobiles to be processed in the painting booth. Computational results are reported.

1) SICUP Business and Software Demonstration, G. Wascher / Tech Univ Braunschweig, Braunschweig, D-38092, Germany

1) Standardization and Technological Uncertainty, Ambar Rao / Univ of Arizona, Dept of Marketing, 320 Mcclelland Hall, Tucson, AZ 85718, USA, Sanjay Jain / Univ of California, 350 Barrows Hall, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA We show that product standards can serve as strategic tools which incumbent firms can use to reduce the threat of displacement by a superior technology. The results provide an explanation for the increase in the number of voluntary product standards as high-tech firms respond to the increased rate of development of new technologies.

2) Models of Diffusion Between Firms and Within the Firm: An Application to the Medical Technology Industry, John Roberts / Univ of New South Wales, Australian Grad Sch of Mgmt, Sydney NSW, 2052, Australia, David Midgley / Univ of New South Wales, Australian Grad Sch of Mgt, Sydney NSW, 2052, Australia, Pam Morrison / Univ of Sydney, Fac of Econ And Commerce, Parramatta Rd, Sydney, 2033, Australia Diffusion models normally assume that potential adopters adopt one unit. This paper develops a new model of intra-firm diffusion based on factors internal to the firm which drive the need for more units of the innovation (for example, growth in usage) and also factors external to the firm (for example, competitive pressures and professional acceptability). The model is calibrated Thermocycler for Polymerase Chain Reactor (PCR) market within Australia, using cross-sectional market research. The effect of network structures is examined and the relative weightings of internal factors and external factors are compared.

3) Coordination in Market Entry Games, Amnon Rapoport / Univ of Arizona, Dept of Mgmt & Policy, Mcclelland Hall #405, Tucson, Az, We investigate a class of market entry games in which each agent must decide privately and anonymously whether to enter a market whose capacity is common knowledge. Whether or not trial-to-trial feedback is provided, the experimental results strongly support the Nash equilibrium despite the presence of large individual differences.

4) The Effects of Piracy and Word-of-Mouth on the Diffusion of Competitive Software Products, Eitan Muller / Tel-Aviv Univ, Recanati Grad Sch of Bus Admin, Tel Aviv 69978, 69978, Israel

5) Timing and Marketing Strategies: Introduction of an Incomplete New Generation Technology, Jinhong Xie / Simon School, Univ of ROChester, Rochester, NY 14627,

1) Determinants of Technical Innovation Activities in Chinese Industries: An Application of Neural-Nets and DEA, Henry Co / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Dec Sci, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Hongyu Li / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Hongxin Zhao / Natl Univ of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore Today's increasingly rapid technological advances and growing competition have shifted the strategic priorities towards quality, cost-effectiveness and responsiveness to marketplace changes. Schumpeter (195O) first postulated that large firms are advantageous in innovating activities. This study employs Data Envelopment Analysis model and Neural-Nets technique to explore the relationship between R&D and various performance variables in the context of Chinese industries.

2) Cone Ratio Stochastic DEA Models, Zhimin Huang / Adelphi Univ, Schools of Mgmt & Business, Garden City, NY 11530, USA Cone ratio stochastic DEA models are developed by taking the possibility of random variations in input-output data into account, and dominance structures on the DEA envelopment side are used to discriminate efficiences among DMUs. The relationships between our models with various other DEA models are also discussed.

3) A Pareto-Koopmans Efficient Method for Group Decision Making Units in Data Envelopment Analysis, Yong Shi / Univ of Nebraska At Omaha, Coll of Bus Admin, Room 310-D, Omaha, NE 68182-0048, USA, Zhimin Huang / Adelphi Univ, Schools of Mgmt & Business, Garden City, NY 11530, USA, Hongyu Li / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore Instead of conducting efficiency evaluation for each given individual Decision Making Unit (DMU), this paper develops a method to evaluate the efficiency of a group of DMUs, which is a subset of all DMUs under consideration. We show how the Charnes-Cooper efficiency test can be extended to define a Pareto-Koopmans efficiency of a group of DMUs. Applications of the method will be also discussed.

4) The Effect of Sample Size on the Mean Efficiency in DEA with an Application to Electricity Dist. in Australia, Sweden and New Zealand, Yun Zhang / Univ of Sydney, Dept of Econometrics, N S W, 2006, Australia, Robert Bartels / Univ of Sydney, Dept of Econometrics, N S W, 2006, Australia This study examines the effect of sample size on the mean productive efficiency of firms when the efficiency is evaluated using the non-parametric approach of Data Envelopment Analysis. By employing Monte Carlo simulation, we show how the mean efficiency is related to the sample size. The paper discusses the implications for international comparisons. As an application, we investigate the efficiency of the electricity distribution industries in Australia, New Zealand and Sweden.

1) Solvable Cases of the Bottleneck Traveling Salesman Problem, J A A Van Der Veen / Nijenrode Univ, Straatweg 25, 3627 Bg Breukelen, Netherlands It is well-known that the Bottleneck Traveling Salesman Problem (BTSP) is NP-hard. However, many polynomial solvable cases exist. In this presentation results on solvable BTSPs will be surveyed. It will be shown that some BTSPs are easier than the corresponding Sum TSPs, some are harder, and some are as difficult.

2) A Unified Approach for Certain Combinatorial Optimization Problems, Yash Aneja / Univ of Windsor, Fac of Bus, Windsor Ontario, Canada N9B 3P4, A. Punnen / Univ of New Brunswick, Maths, Stat, And Comp Sci, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada E2L 4L5 We consider combinatorial optimization problems with objectives that include generalized bottlenecks and measures of dispersion. We propose a general solution strategy that enables us to relate their complexity with that of some derived linear objective problems. This unifies several existing results and identifies new classes of polynomially solvable problems.

3) Integrality Conditions for L C P and Quadratic Program, Santosh N Kabadi / Univ of New Brunswick, Fac of Admin, P O Box 4400, Fredericton NB, Canada E3B 5A3 We discuss necessary and sufficient conditions for an L C P to have an integral feasible complementary solution. This extends the notion of total unimodularity of a matrix. Additional results are obtained for the case of a convex quadratic program.

4) Discrete Bottleneck Linear Programs and Extensions, K P K Nair / Univ of New Brunswick, Fac of Admin, Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada E3B 5A3, A. Punnen / Univ of New Brunswick, Maths, Stat, And Comp Sci, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada E2L 4L5 We propose polynomial algorithms to solve a class of discrete bottleneck problems. Related range minimization problems are also considered and polynomial algorithms are provided to solve various special cases. Thus we have new solvable cases of interger linear programming problems.

1) Applied Combinatoric to Reliable Computer Systems, P. Praneetpolgrang / Florida Inst of Tech, 150 West Univ Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901, USA, J. Hadjilojiou / Florida Inst of Tech, 150 West Univ Blvd, Melbourne, FL 32901, USA A new method of designing reliable computer systems using combinatoric will be presented. Combinatorics theories are combined with linear and non-linear pseudo-random feedback shift registers for obtaining an optimum testing scheme. Our approach has been benchmarked with existing approaches and our results in all cases are equal or better.

2) Quadratic Assignment Problem (QAP): Computational Experimentations, Osman Oguz / Bilkent Univ, Dept of Industrial Engineering, Bilkent, Ankara, 06533, Turkey Some new kinds of valid inequalities for the 0-1 integer programming for the quadratic assignment problem (QAP) are proposed. The effectiveness of these inequalities is tested by computational experimentations. Test problems available in the literature will be used in the experiments.

3) Distributed Algorithms for Maximum Cliques, Ching-Ting Wu / 3 M, Bldg. 301-1W-10, 3 M Center, St Paul, MN 55144, USA, Andrew Lim / Information Technology Inst, 71 Science Park Dr, Singapore 0511, Singapore, David Du / Univ of Minnesota, Dept of Computer Sci, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA Finding the maximum cliques in a graph has been an important research topic for decades. It has many applications in CAD for VLSI design, operations research, network layout, etc. In this paper, we propose distributed algorithms to find all maximum cliques in a given graph. A heuristic is also proposed. Experimental results show that the quality of the solutions found by the heuristic are very close to the optimal solutions.

4) Spanning Trees and Steiner Trees with Performance Consideration, Ching-Ting Wu / 3 M, Bldg. 301-1W-10, 3 M Center, St Paul, MN 55144, USA, Andrew Lim / Information Technology Inst, 71 Science Park Dr, Singapore 0511, Singapore In this paper, we study spanning trees and Steiner trees with performance consideration. They are useful in applications where the distances between certain vertices are more important than the distances between other vertices like in net connections of high performance circuits in VLSI CAD.

5) Solving the Pattern Generation of the Garden of Eden by Diophantine Equations, Nei Yoshihiro Soma / Cta/Ita/Iec, S.J. Campos - S.P., Brazil The garden of Eden generation is a well known problem of Cellular Automata theory. A suggested a new approach for solving it is by using Linear Diophantine Equations and the Frobenius bound. Some interesting variations of the original problem are also presented as well as the properties derived.

1) Panel on Research Directions and Publication Strategies in Engineering and Technology Management, Arnold Reisman / Case Western Reserve Univ, Dept of Oper Res, Cleveland, OH 44106-7235, USA, R. Balachandra / Northeastern Univ, 314 Hayden Hall, Boston, MA 02115, USA, Burton V. Dean / San Jose St Univ, Dept of Org & Mgmt, San Jose, CA 95192, USA, Donald Gerwin / Carleton Univ, School of Business, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1S 5B6, Dundar F Kocaoglu / Portland State Univ, Eng Mgt Program, Sch of Eng & Applied Sci, Portland, OR 97207-0751, USA The IEEE Transaction on Engineering Mangement recently completed its 40th year as a leading international research journal in engineering and technology management. This panel discussion will be presented by the editor-in-chief and department editors of the journal. A brief discussion of research directions and publication strategies will be followed by a question/answer period.

1) Effects of Consumer Stockpiling on Competitive Price Promotions, Sudhir Karunakaran / Cornell Univ, Malott Hall, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA Empirical studies in the non-durable goods market show that consumers respond to promotions by stockpiling. This paper analyzes the impact of such consumer behavior on price promotional strategies in a competitive environment using a stylized model. While extant models that do not incorporate stockpiling behavior predict price promotions that are independent across periods, this model predicts an equilibrium pricing strategy that is periodic.

2) A Study on the Price System of Input-Output Model, Han Dong / Xinjiang Univ, Dept of Math, Urumgi, 830046, Rep of China We present a fundamental price equation of discrete-time dynamic model of input-output whose input-coefficient matrices and capital-coefficient matrices may vary with time and obtain a necessary and sufficient condition for the stationary variation of price under the condition of market free competition.

3) Determinants of Industrial Pricing Strategies, Peter Noble / Nanyang Tech Univ, Sch of Accountancy And Bus, Nanyang Av, Singapore, 2263, Singapore, Thomas Gruca / Univ of Iowa, 108 Pappajohn Bus Bldg, Room W376, Iowa City, IA 52242-1000, USA There is little empirical research on the determinants of industrial pricing strategies. We test how different determinants affect the choice of pricing strategy. Using a stratified sample of managers in capital goods industries (n=270, USA), we show that the choice of pricing strategy is influenced variously by market, competitive and product factors.

4) Competitive Equilibrium in an Exchange Economy with Indivisibilities, Sushil Bikhchandani / U C L A, Anderson School of Mgmt, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA, John Mamer / U C L A, Graduate Sch of Mgt, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA We analyze an exchange economy in which all commodities except money are indivisible. Buyer preferences can be described by a reservation value for each bundle of objects. All buyers and sellers are price-takers. We obtain conditions under which market clearing prices exist. Implications for multi-object auctions and other market mechanisms are discussed.

1) A Hybrid Fuzzy Expert System for Stocks Classification, Seng-Cho T. Chou / Nat'l Taiwan Univ, Taiwan, Chau-Chen Yang / Nat'l Taiwan Univ, Taiwan A decision support system combining techniques of fuzzy set theory, expert systems, neural networks, and genetic algorithms for stocks calssification is proposed in this talk. The system is equipped with the capability to make its rule set adaptable to the input patterns. The performance of the system is evaluated through the prediction of the potential profitability of listed stocks of the Taiwan stock market.

2) Neurocomputing in Auditing - The Cases in Taiwan, Rebecca Chung-F Wu / Nat'l Taiwan Univ, Dept of Acctg, College of Mgmt, Taiwan This study demonstrates the use of neurocomputing technology in the area of audit planning. Expert auditor's reviewing reports were used as a set of examples that become input to the artificial neural network. This study shows a careful process of selecting data attributes (signals) from auditor's reviewing reports, which is usually the most difficult part in acquiring expert knowledge. About 200 examples are input to the system. The result of predictive accuracy rate is compared against ID3 alogorithm, and shows a very positive result for applying neurocomputing in auditing area.

3) An Empirical Study of the Predictive Ability of Alternate Sets of Insurance Corporation Insolvency Warning Methods, David Jou / Nat'l Taiwan Univ, Dept of Finance, College of Mgmt, Taiwan This research investigates the predictive ability of alternate sets of insurance insolvency warning methods, which are Neural Nets, Multivariate Discriminate Analysis (MDA), and Logistic Regression Model (LRM). Our empirical studies have two indications based on the American insurance industry 9-year statutory accounting financial data. First, the training sample result shows that the Neural Nets Method outperforms the other two methods, MDA and LRM, in detecting the individual insurance company insolvent probability on the training data sample. Second, it may be influenced by the change of environment of macro economy, there is no difference among these three methods in the prediction of holdout sample.

4) Situation Theory and Accounting Information, Kuo-Tay Chen / Nat'l Taiwan Univ, Dept of Acctg, Taiwan Decision usefulness and auditability of account information have always been major concerns to accountants. This study intends to investigate the applicability of a knowlege-based approach to the representation of accounting information. The approach represents accounting information as a collection of static and dynamic situations, upon which various constraints are set by internal control systems and business conventions. Such a representation can facilitate context-sensitive "interpretation" of account information (e.g. cost-volume-profit analysis) by expert systems and decision support systems.

1) Environmental Influences on Population-Level Learning Rates Over Time, Philip Anderson / Dartmouth College, 100 Tuck Hall, Hanover, NH 03755, USA This paper explores how environmental factors have influenced the rate of population-level learning over the course of the microcomputer industry's history. Rates of population learning wax and wane cyclically in concert with patterned changes in the industry environment.

2) Organizational Learning and Environmental Selection in Changing Environments: A Genetic Algorithm Based Model, Erhard Bruderer / Univ of Minnesota, Carlson Sch of Mgt, H12 Mgt Ec, 271 19th Av South, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA, Jitendra Singh / Univ of Penn, Dept of Mgt, Wharton School, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA This paper explicates a genetic algorithm based model of change in the mix of organizational routines in a population. It considers the interplay of organizational learning and environmental selection in changing environments.

3) Population Level Learning: The Effect of Outcomes on Learning from the Experience of Others, Pamela R. Haunschild / Stanford Univ,, Anne S. Miner / Univ of Wisconsin - Madison, 975 University Av, Granger Hall 5274C, Madison, WI 53706, USA We examine evidence for various sources of mimetic learning on the use of investment banking firms. Using data on 539 acquisitions that occurred during 1988-1993, we study whether the outcomes of an acquiring company's use of an investment banking firm affects the likelihood of other aquires using that same firm.

4) Implications of Imperfect Copying for the Outcomes of Population Level Learning, Anne S. Miner / Univ of Wisconsin - Madison, 975 University Av, Granger Hall 5274C, Madison, WI 53706, USA, Pamela R. Haunschild / Stanford Univ, This paper explores implications of varieties of copying rules and imperfections on population level learning. Such rules include copying the most common practice or copying practices of apparently successful organizations. Copying imperfections include inaccurate imitation along with the copying of unrelated routines. Illustrations include issues in copying technological routines.

1) Industrial Project Selection Decision Model: An Integrated Approach, Saeed A. Al-Araimi / Sultan Qaboos Univ, P O Box 33, Al-Khodh 123, Oman An integrated multi-criteria project selection decision model based on Saaty's AHP and rating model is developed, applied and implemented by using the Expert Choice Software, and integrated with the linear goal programming technique. This comprehensive multi-criteria evaluation model provides an effective methodology for selecting a set of industrial projects by considering both quantitative and qualitative decision criteria.

2) Nonlinear Models for Project Crashing with Time, Cost, and Quality Considerations, A J G Babu / Seton Hall Univ, Stillman Sch of Bus, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA, Nalina Suresh / Univ of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, Dept of Math, Eau Claire, WI 54701, USA We have previously studied the tradeoffs among time, cost, and quality in project crashing. The models assumed that quality attained varies linearly with activity completion time. In this paper we extend them to cases when quality varies quadratically and exponentially with activity completion time. A comparative computational study is reported.

1) Tutorial: Using Linear Programming to Generate Neural Networks, Asim Roy / Arizona State Univ, Dept of Dec & Info Sys, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA This tutorial will present several methods for generating various types of neural networks using linear programming. Unlike connectionist learing (e.g. back propagation type learning, characterized by predefined nets, local learning laws and memoryless learning), these methods can both design and train a network. They can be used to design and train networks such as multilayer perceptrons, radial basis function (RBF)-like nets and fuzzy logic nets for both classification and function approximation. The tutorial will present a new learning theory that is much more brain-like than classical connectionist learning. This tutorial will also cover historical developments in the area, other recent LP-based methods for generating neural networks and computational experience with these methods.

1) Perspectives on Simulation Using GPSS, Thomas J. Schriber / Univ of Michigan, Comp & Info Sys, Sch of Busi Admin, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 1234, USA GPSS (General Purpose Simulation System) is overviewed briefly. The approach taken in GPSS to model a one-line, one-server system is explained, implementation details are provided, and results are discussed. References and suggestions for further study are given.

1) Nonparametric Statistical Methods for Controlling and Predicting the Quality of Space Shuttle Flight Software, Norman F. Schneidewind / Naval Postgraduate Sch, Code Sm/Ss, Monterey, CA 93943, USA Nonparametric statistical methods, which do not require the assumption of distribution, are very useful for validating and applying software metrics. We apply these methods to the control and prediction of software quality of the NASA Space Shuttle flight software. Various nonparametric tests for identifying metric thresholds for quality control and prediction are described and evaluated.

2) On the Concepts of Total Systems, Total Dependability, Total Quality & Software Cybernetics, Kai-Yuan Cai / City Univ, Ctr For Software Reliability, Northhampton Sq, London E V1V O H B, U K

3) On Software Reliability Growth Models & Analysis, M Zhao / Link Ping Univ, Div of Quality Tech, S-581 83, Link Ping, Sweden, M Xie / Link Ping Univ, Div of Quality Tech, S-581 83, Link Ping, Sweden

4) A Decision Models for Software Quality Management, Hans Ludwig Hausen / Gmd Schloss Birlinghoven D5205, St Augustini, Germany Software quality management is specified by using rules to define models for products, processes, characteristics, methods, and tools. For sotfware evaluation and certification such rules are evaluated in order to produce advice on products and processes (e.g. product parts missing, activities not reported). PCTE-OMS is the implementation platform.

1) Productivity in the Pakistani Knitwear Industry, Arif Iqbal Rana / Lahore Univ of Mgmt Sciences, Opp Sector U, L C C H S, Lahore Cantt, 54792, Pakistan, Zafar Iqbal Qureshi / Lahore Univ of Mgmt Sciences, Opp Sector 'U', L C C H S, Lahore Cantt., 54792, Pakistan Managers of different knitwear units were surveyed for data on their company's productivity and the factors that in their opinion influence productivity. The productivity of different knitwear units was compared in terms of value added per worker, as well as some other measures. This paper identifies the factors that have the greatest influence on productivity in the Pakistani knitwear industry.

2) Current Quality Practices in the Pakistani Knitwear Industry, Jamshed Khan / Lahore Univ of Mgmt Sciences, Opp Sector U, L C C H S, Lahore Cantt, 54792, Pakistan, Arif Iqbal Rana / Lahore Univ of Mgmt Sciences, Opp Sector U, L C C H S, Lahore Cantt, 54792, Pakistan We surveyed several knitwear units in Pakistan, to ascertain the current quality assurace practices in the industry. Questions in the survey were in general within the framework of the Malcom Balridge Award. In this paper we present the findings of the survey and give several recommendations for improvement.

3) Relative Efficiency of the Indian Banking Industry, Kusum W. Ketkar / Seton Hall Univ, Dept of Econ, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA, Athasasios C Noulas / Seton Hall Univ, Dept of Econ, South Orange, NJ 07079, USA The 1991 structural and stabilization reform program of the government of India promised to improve efficiency and international competitiveness of commercial banks. So far, however, there has been no significant change in the role of public sector banks in the Indian financial sector. The relative efficiency of public and private sector banks will be estimated and analyzed.

4) Productivity Impact of IT in Singapore: A Macroeconomic Perspective, Poh-Kam Wong / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 0511, Singapore This paper investigates the impact of IT investment on overall productivity in the Singaporean economy by estimating a macroeconomic production function that includes IT capital as an input. The results indicate significant productivity payoff from IT and hence refute the "productivity paradox" in the case of Singapore.

5) Strategy and Concerns of Manufacturing Companies in Singapore, Huu-Phuong Ta / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Dec Sci, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 0511, Singapore, Thiam-Soon Tan / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Bus Policy, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore 0511, Singapore This paper discusses the results of surveys on manufacturing firms in Singapore. It focuses on their strategy and current concerns.

Tuesday 08:00-09:15

1) Quality Control Strategies for Clinical Trials, Sheryl F. Kelsey / Univ of Pittsburgh, Grad Sch of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, Stephen Wisniewski / Univ of Pittsburgh, Grad Sch of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, Kim Sutton-Tyrrell / Univ of Pittsburgh, Grad Sch of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, Katherine Detre / Univ of Pittsburgh, Grad Sch of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA Quality control strategies for randomized clinical trials include training of clinical researchers, protocols for data transfer and data management, site visits to compare study data with medical records, editing procedures, and exploratory data analysis. Specific examples of quality control for multicenter clinical trials are presented.

2) A New Planning Model for Non-profit Institutions, Petrus A Verheyen / Tilburg Univ, P.O. Box 90153, 5000 Le Tilburg, Netherlands Governments, health insurance associations and research boards pay a budget to non-profit institutions (hospitals, universities), based on general indicators (inhabitants, admissions, or students). The institutions have specific tasks. We solve the tension between allocation using general indicators and specific needs by a new budget-price planning model, based on practical experiments.

3) Measuring the Efficiency of New Brunswick's Hospital System, Francisco J. Arcelus / Univ of New Brunswick, Faculty of Administration, P.O. Box 4400, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3, Canada, B.L. Greene / Univ of New Brunswick, Fac of Nursing, P.O. Box 4400, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada The fiscal reality has demonstrated that the health care business becomes accountable to public, government and industry. As a result, efficiency measures are called for to evaluate each hospital's resource usage. Within this context, the paper uses Data Envelopment Analysis to evaluate New Brunswick's hospital system.

4) Multi-Attribute Preference Functions for a Comprehensive Health Status Classification System: Patients vs. General Public, Oinan Wang / Nanyang Tech Univ, Sch of Accountancy & Business, Singapore 2263, Singapore, William Furlong / McMaster Univ, Fac of Health Sci, Canada, David Feeny / McMaster Univ, Fac of Health Sci, Canada, George Torrance / McMaster Univ, Fac of Health Sci, Canada This paper reports a seven-attribute health status classification system and an application of multi-attribute utility theory in the assessment of quality-of-life issues for childhood cancer patients. Empirical data have been collected. A comparative analysis between patients and the general public is conducted to study the impact of experience with childhood cancer on preference scores of health status.

5) Analysis of Operational Performance of MCH Services in Hong Kong, Kary K Y Lee / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Dept of Appl Stat & O R, Hong Kong, Mary P P Ho / Hospital Authority of Hong Kong, Head Office, 19/F World Trade Centre, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong, Sydney C K Chu / Univ of Hong Kong, Dept of Math, Hong Kong All four helth-care services of 37 full-time Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Centres in Hong Kong are evaluated with respect to some performance measures (PMs). Centres are grouped by adapted clustering techniques into several clusters with similar pattterns of workload statistics and compared in terms of selected PMs. Such segmentation by operational efficiency identifies areas needing performance improvement of community MCH services as a whole.

1) A Stochastic Captial Rationing Model with Project Risk, Dennis Kira / Concordia Univ, 1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3G 1M8, Martin Kusy / Concordia Univ, 1455 Demaisonneuve Blvd West, Room S201, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3G 1M8, Ian Rakita / Concordia Univ, 1455 Demaisonneuve Blvd West, Room S201, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3G 1M8 This paper extends previous research by Kira and Kusy on the optimal selection of projects in an uncertain environment. The initial model incorporates uncertain cashflows. In this model we consider the inherent risk of projects as well as debt/equity issues including the effect of financial distress on capital rationing decisions.

2) Capital Growth and Proportional Investment Strategies, L.C. Maclean / Dalhousie Univ,, W.T. Ziemba / Univ of Brit Columbia, Fac of Commerce, 2053 Main Mall, Vancouver B C, Canada V6T 1Y8 This paper considers the problem of investment in risky opportunities to achieve a favourable expected rate of growth of capital while guaranteeing that the actual capital growth exceeds some specified level. It is shown that when the investment opportunities consitutue a mutual fund the optimal decision is to invest a fixed fraction of wealth. For the case of log normal return on investment a deterministic problem is formulated and analyzed.

3) Calendar Anomalies in the Italian Stock Market, Elio Canestrelli / Not Available. The underlying hypothesis of the EMH imply the absence of regularities in the dynamic of the security price returns. On the contrary, the anomalies in the Milan (Italy) Stock Exchange Market presented in this paper, over a period of 21 years from 1973 - 1993 show that it is possible to find systematic movements as regards to particular expires of the civil year and stock exchange calendar. The results appear to be in accordance with the ones found in the USA market with the exception of some differences due to technical features of the Italian market.

1) Performance Analysis of Random Access Systems with Client-Server Traffic, Hidehito Gomi / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-01, Japan, Yutaka Takahashi / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-01, Japan, Toshiharu Hasegawa / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, 606-01, Japan We consider a local area network, where a base station and a number of remote stations share a common channel under a random access scheme. The time axis is slotted, and time slots are grouped into frames each of which is subdivided into three parts: contension, downward, and upward periods. We exactly analyze its performance by defining an imbedded Markov chain and derive throughput, and waiting time distribution for the model.

2) Analysis of an M(x)/G/1 Queue with Multiple Vacations and G-Limited Service Discipline, Takafumi Nagano / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-01, Japan, Yutaka Takahashi / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-01, Japan, Toshiharu Hasegawa / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, 606-01, Japan We consider a queue with multiple vacations and G-limited service discipline where batch-sizes of customers are arbitrarily distributed. We exactly analyze the model by defining an imbedded Markov chain and derive the mean waiting time.

3) Analysis of a Finite Buffer GI-D-1 Queue with Batch Arrivals of ATM Cells, Daiji Horibe / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-01, Japan We consider two types of cell loss rate at an ATM switch. We analyze a finite buffer discrete time queueing model where messages of random numbers of cells are served, and derive loss rate for individual cells and for those cells whose accompanying cells in a message are lost.

4) Optimal Booking Policy for Multi-Segment Flights, Marvin Hersh / Florida Atlantic Univ, Dept Decision & Info Systems, Boca Raton, FL 33431-0991, USA, Tak C. Lee / Nat'l Univ of Malaysia, Fac of Bus Mgt, Bangi, Selagor, Malaysia A model is presented for controlling the seat inventory in multi-segment flights. An analysis using Dynamic Programming shows that the optimal policy can be simplified to certain critical values which can be used to control the reservation process while significantly reducing the computational time for solving the problem.

1) Performance of MDS Codes Over MMDP-Modelled ATM Networks, Tsz-Mei Ko / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Elec & Elect Engr, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong This paper discusses the error and delay performances of Maximum Distance Separable (MDS) codes over an ATM network. The underlying assumption is that the packet arrival for each ATM switch in the network can be approximated by a Markov Modulated Deterministic Process (MMDP).

2) A Traffic Modeling and Performance of an ATM Multiplexer of VBR Video Sources, Myeong-Yong Lee / Telecom Networks Research Labs, 17, Woomyun-Dong, Seocho-Gu, Seoul, Korea, Jung Sik Hong / Seoul Nat'l Polytechnic Univ, Dept of Ind Eng, 172 Knogmeung-Dong, Nowon-Gu, Seoul, Korea, Sang Cheon Lee / Seoul Nat'l Univ, Dept of Ind Eng, Son 56-1, Sinlim 9-Dong, Kwanak-Gu, Seoul, Korea The variable bit rate (VBR) video services are expected to be a significant portion of the broadband ISDN (B-ISDN) services in the near future. To evaluate the queueing performance of an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) multiplexer loaded with the aggregated video sources, we propose the superposed cell arrival process model.

3) Comparison of Two Congestion Control Schemes for Best Effort Services, Hideo Kitazume / N T T Telecom Networks Labs, 3-9-11 Midori-Cho, Musashino-Shi, Tokyo, 180, Japan, Konosuke Kawashima / N T T Telecom Networks Labs, 3-9-11 Midori-Cho, Musashino-Shi, Tokyo, 180, Japan We evaluate two congestion control schemes for best effort services in ATM networks, rate based scheme and credit based scheme. By simulation experiments and some analysis, two schemes are evaluated from user points of view. Our results including discussions in ATM-Forum are presented.

1) Further Advances in the Neural Network Approach to Developing Country Debt Rescheduling Prediction, Kenneth R. Gordon / Univ of Colorado At Boulder, Col of Bus & Admn, Campus Box 419, Boulder, CO 80309-0419, USA, James P. Kelly / Univ of Colorado, College of Bus & Admin, Campus Box 419, Boulder, CO 80309-0419, USA This paper demonstrates the application of NN as a viable methodological approach to assessing country risk by classifying borrowers as reschedulers or non-reschedulers of external indebtedness. Several theoretical advances in NN modeling are suggested and implemented.

2) A Grasp for the Graph Planarization Problem, Mauricio G.C. Resende / A T & T Bell Laboratories, 600 Mountain Av, Room 2D152, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA, Celso Ribeiro / Catholic Univ, Dept of Computer Sci, Rio de Janeiro, 22453-900, Brazil The graph planarization problem consists in finding the minimum number of edges that should be removed from an undirected graph to make it planar. We present a greedy randomized adaptive search procedure for solving this problem. Computational results are reported.

3) Graph Partitioning by Tabu Search: Deterministic and Probabilistic Strategies, Fan-Tsong Tseng / Univ of Alabama-Huntsville, Dept of Mis/Msc, Admin Science Building 314, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA, Fred Glover / Univ of Colorado, Sch of Bus, C B 419, Boulder, CO 80309, USA In this paper, we compare two types of strategies - deterministic and probabilistic - for selecting a candidate move in a neighborhood in terms of solution quality and computational time. Within a tabu search framework, the two strategies are applied to the uniform graph partitioning problem.

4) Parallel Implementations of Tabu Search - A Case Study: Task Scheduling on Heterogeneous Processors Under Precedence Constraints, Celso Ribeiro / Catholic Univ, Dept of Computer Sci, Rio de Janeiro, 22453-900, Brazil, Stella C.S. Porto / Catholic Univ, Dept of Computer Sci, Rio de Janeiro, 22453-900, Brazil We study several strategies for the parallel implementation of tabu search on a network of asynchronous processors: master-slave (with two schemes for improved load balancing) and SPMD (with single- and multiple-token schemes for message passing). Computational results obtained on an IBM SP-1 system running under PVM are presented.

1) Key Practices in Strategic Information Systems Planning, Vijay Sethi / Univ of Oklahoma, College of Bus, Div of Mgmt, 307 West Brooks, Norman, OK 73019-0450, USA, Albert L. Lederer / Univ of Kentucky, Coll of Busi & Econ/Sch of Mgt, 425C Business And Econ Bldg, Lexington, KY 40506-0034, USA Strategic information systems planning (SISP) is an important activity for information executives and top management. Observers have identified measures of successful SISP and have recommended many practices for achieving success. The SISP experiences of 105 planners provide the basis for understanding the relationships among the practices and measures of success.

2) Beyond Information Strategy, John Simons / Univ of Groningen, School of Mgmt & Org, P.O. Box 800, 9700 Av Groningen, Netherlands, A.W.V. Breukel / Univ of Groningen, School of Mgmt & Org, P.O. Box 800, 9700 Av Groningen, Netherlands, S.K.Th Boersma / Univ of Groningen, School of Mgmt & Org, P.O. Box 800, 9700 Av Groningen, Netherlands It is paradoxical that IT is advocated widely as a thrust for competitive advantage and at the same time the effects of Information Strategy can hardly be established. Based on case studies and survey research in the Netherlands this phenomenon is explained. Guidelines IT-investments are given.

3) Design of Multimethods Approach for Corporate Strategy, Mitsuharu Watanabe / Univ of Tokyo, R C A S T/Oosuga-Lab, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo, 153, Japan, Koichi Hori / Univ of Tokyo, R C A S T/Oosuga-Lab, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo, 153, Japan, Setsuo Oosuga / Univ of Tokyo, R C A S T/Oosuga-Lab, 4-6-1 Komaba, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo, 153, Japan Like ordinal industrial design, Corporate Strategy should be decided in a non-deterministic way. We propose a new type of Multimethods Approach integrating Heuristics, Object Oriented System, Abduction, Idea-Support and Qualitative Reasoning. This trial is unique not only as a Decision Support System but also as universal design methodology.

1) Information Technology and the Productivity of Knowledge Work, Amit Das / Nanyang Tech Univ, Sch of Accountancy & Business, Singapore, 2264, Singapore, Paul E. Johnson / Univ of Minnesota, 271 19th Av S., Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA, K. K. Sinha / Univ of Minnesota, 271 19th Av South, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA Knowledge work processes in organizations are adapted to the information environment constituted by IT artifacts and organizational agents. Our research shows how work processes determine the productivity of knowledge work and suggests ways in which IT may be used to change work processes and thereby increase productivity.

2) Systems for Software Development Effort Measurement, Greg Jenkins / Griffith Univ, Sch of Computing & Info Tech, Nathan Queensland, 4111, Australia, Chuk Yau / Griffith Univ, Sch of Computing & Info Tech, Nathan Queensland, 4111, Australia This paper presents a new framework for software sizing which comprises a predictive system and a descriptive system. The predictive system concentrates on the technical aspect of the software product and to a limited extent the development environment. The calibration of these systems depends on historical data. The descriptive systems can provide an insight to the factors that should be considered when using a sizing model and will provide the foundations on which to build a strategic implementation plan for a program of software sizing.

1) An Examination of the Role of Use Processes in Group Decision, Marshall Scott Poole / Univ of Minnesota, Dept of Speech Comm, 9 Pleasant St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA, V Sambamurthy / Florida State Univ, Info & Mgmt Sciences, College of Business, Tallahassee, FL 32306-1042, USA This research integrates the "technocentric" and "social" perspectives to examine the relative effects of variations in GSS capabilities and groups' use of the GSS capabilities and group's use of the GSS upon the decision-making performance of computer-supported groups. Data from 20 groups is used to test the conceptual model through a structural model (LISREL).

2) GDSS in Practice: Best Intentions/Organizational Realities, Karen Ruhleder / Worcester Polytech Inst, Dept of Mgmt, Worcester, MA 01609, USA, Rudy Hirschheim / Univ of Houston, Info Sys Res Ctr, Houston, TX 77204-6283, USA The GDSS literature posits these technologies as agents of organizational change with respect to information sharing and decision-making. Grudin (1989) discusses why these technologies must fail to meet their promise. We draw on data gathered from managers using GDSS in a laboratory setting to support and extend these claims.

3) Electronic Lies: Deceptive Communication and Group Support Systems, Joey F. George / Florida State Univ, Dept of Info & Mgt Sci, Coll of Bus, Tallahassee, FL 32306 1042, USA Deception has always been an issue in human communication. Now since much communication is electronic, lying can also be seen as an issue in computer-mediated communication, as in group support systems. Does communication medium affect lying? Relevant theory and empirical results provide some answers.

1) Asymptotically Optimal Design and Control of Queueing Systems, J George Shanthikumar / Univ of California - Berkeley, Walter A Haas Sch of Bus, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA, Susan H. Xu / Penn State Univ, College of Business Adm, University Park, PA 16802, USA We provide formal definitions of asymptotic optimality in the context of design and control of queueing systems that we consider and describe approaches to obtain asymptotically optimal design and control policies for queueing systems. We illustrate our approaches through several examples. We also show through counter-examples that common-sense designs or control policies need not be asymptotically optimal in these examples.

2) A Queue with Vacations Depending on the Service Process, Fumiaki Machihara / N T T Telecom Networks Labs, 3-9-11 Midori-Cho, Musashino, Tokyo, 180, Japan We study the decomposition problem for the waiting time for a G/SM/1 queue with exhaustive service and multiple vacations depending on the service process. Under some condition on the vacation process, the waiting time is decomposed into the waiting time of the queue without vacations and some random variable which may be dependent.

3) A Rate Conservation Law Approach to a Discrete-Time Queueing System with a General Server Vacation, Yoshitaka Takahashi / N T T Telecom Networks Labs, 9-11 3-Chome, Midori Musashino, Tokyo, 180, Japan, Masakiyo Miyazawa / Science Univ of Tokyo, Dept of Information Sciences, Noda-City, Chiba, 278, Japan We study a discrete-time single server queueing system with server vacation. Applying a rate conservation law by Miyazawa and Takahashi (1992), we derive decomposition formulas in the batch Bernoulli input system and the general batch input system with a general server vacation schedule.

4) Decomposability in Queues with Background States, Genji Yamazaki / Tokyo Metro Inst of Tech, Hino, Tokyo 191, Japan, Masakiyo Miyazawa / Science Univ of Tokyo, Dept of Information Sciences, Noda-City, Chiba, 278, Japan We consider a single node queue with Poisson arrivals and background state, which changes at completion instants of lifetimes as well as at the arrival and departure instants. We establish general criteria to be sufficient conditions for the queue to posses the decomposability.

1) Competitive Model for Simultaneous Decision Making on Inventory and Pricing Policies for Capacity-Constrained Manufacturer, Kyung Keun Lee / Pusan Nat'l Univ, Dept of Ind Eng, 30 Jangjeon-Dong, Kumjung-Ku, Pusan, South Korea A simultaneous decision making model for a monopolistic or competitive supplier to decide inventory and pricing policies under capacity constraint is studied. Economic implications are obtained from the optimality conditions such as production lot sizes, pricing schedules and so on. Sensitivity analysis gives us the optimal relations among the critical economic quantities.

2) Distribution Free Procedures for Some Inventory Models, Ilkyeong Moon / Pusan Nat'l Univ, Dept of Industrial Eng., Pusan, 609-735, Korea, Guillermo Gallego / Columbia Univ, Dept of Ie/Or, New York, NY 10027, USA The distributional information of the lead-time demand is often limited in practice. We relax the assumption that the CDF of the lead-time demand is completely known, find the most unfavorable distribution for each decision variable and then minimize over the decision variable. We solve both the continuous review model and the periodic review model using the distribution free approach.

3) Inventory Management in High Volume Remanufacturing, Geraldo Ferrer / I N S E A D, Tech Mgt Area, Blvd Constance, Fontainebleau, F-77305, France Looking at product recovery process in high volume industries, we propose an inventory model that reflects the problem encountered by firms engaged in remanufacturing. We simulate the reverse flow of parts at different stages in the product life-cycle and suggest policies to optimize the remanufacturing operation.

4) Inventory Rationing in Make-to-Stock Production Systems, Albert Y. Ha / Yale Univ, Yale School of Mgmt, 135 Prospect St, New Haven, CT 06511, USA We consider the problem of rationing inventory in make-to-stock production systems. We characterize the form of the optimal policy for both the lost sales and the backorder cases. Computational results will be presented.

5) Stocking Policies for Tote Bins with Order Splitting, Wei Shih / Bowling Green State Univ, Dept of Applied Stat & Or, Bowling Green, OH 43403, USA Tote bins, which are used to ship chemicals, are returned to the factory only after their contents are emptied subject to a random time duration. The shortage of tote bins causes delay in filling customer orders. Due to its bulkiness and high purchase cost, simulation is used to determine the optimal quantity to stock and examine the advantage of order splitting.

1) Scheduling Machine and Material Handling Operations in a Multi-Product Processing Line, Lei Lei / Rutgers Univ, Grad Sch of Mgmt, Newark, NJ 07102, USA, R. Armstrong / Rutgers Univ, 92 New St, Grad Sch of Mgt, Newark, NJ 07102, USA, Shanhong Gu / Rutgers Univ, Grad Sch of Mgt, Newark, NJ 07102, USA, Qing Liu / Rutgers Univ, Grad Sch of Mgmt, Newark, NJ 07102, USA We consider the problem of scheduling machine and material handling operations to minimize the cycle-time of a multi-product process. We show that a schedule is feasible if and only if an associated graph does not contain positive circuits, and propose an effective algorithm that derives the minimum cycle-time schedule.

2) Production Control for a Flexible Manufacturing Cell, Jannes Slomp / Univ of Groningen, Fac of Mgmt & Org, P O Box 800, 9700 Av Groningen, Netherlands, Kathryn E. Stecke / The Univ of Michigan, Sch of Bus Admin, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1234, USA This paper describes the production control issues of a flexible manufacturing cell (FMC). The current production control system of the particular firm shows several deficiencies with respect to the FMC. This paper proposes a change in the current production control hierarchy and the introduction of some new methods to solve major production control problems.

3) Assignment Planning of Jobs and Tools in FMS, Susumu Fujii / Kobe Univ, Dept of Comp & Sys Eng, Rokkodai, Nade, Kobe, 657, Japan, Hiroshi Morita / Kobe Univ, Dept of Comp & Sys Eng, Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657, Japan, Hirotada Matsumoto / Kobe Univ, Dept of Comp & Sys Eng, Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657, Japan The efficiency of FMS is affected by the balance of jobs to machining centers, while the job assignment depends on the matching of tool sets on machines and those required for job processing. This study proposes a heuristic algorithm for assignment of tools and jobs on machines.

1) Scheduling Decisions for Cellular Manufacturing in Small Plants, Marc Gravel / Univ of Quebec, Dept of Info & Mathematics, 555 Univ Blvd, Chicoutimi Que, Canada G7H 2B1, Wilson Price / Univ Laval, Dept Oper & Dec Sys, Pavillon Palasis-Prince, Sainte-Foy, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4 The thrust of the authors' research is to improve productivity in small plants. They examine the impacts of the introduction of manufacturing cells in this context. Criteria for cell formation are primarily but not exclusively based on flow analysis. The authors will present the effects of the use of their previously published scheduling heuristics in this context and derive new results.

2) Scheduling in a Non-traditional Flow Shop, Shanling Li / Mc Gill Univ, Faculty of Mgmt, 1001 Sherbrooke St. W, Montreal, PQ, Canada H3A 1G5 We consider a job secheduling problem in a non-traditional flow shop. The problem assumes two-stages, parallel machines, multi-product families, hatch productions, significant major and minor set-ups and multiple-operations. The objective is to minimize the total completion time and determine the quantity and the schedule of each family and each part to be processed on each machine.

3) A New Decomposition Scheme for Robust Optimization and Dynamic Control Problems, S. David Wu / Lehigh Univ, Dept of Ind & Mtg Sys Eng, Mohler Lab/200 W Packer Av, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA We propose a new approach to optimization and control. Instead of generating a fully specified optimal solution using available information at the moment, we aim at generating "robust" solutions. Applications of this approach to production scheduling, and other combinatorial problems will be discussed.

4) Robust Predictive Schedules for a Single Machine, Reha Uzsoy / Purdue Univ, Sch of Ind Eng, 1287 Grissom Hall, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1287, USA, Sanjay V. Mehta / Purdue Univ, Sch of Indust Eng, 1287 Grissom Hall, West Lafayette, IN 47907-1287, USA We examine the problem of developing predictive schedules for a single machine in the face of job arrivals, due dates and disruptions. The goal is to develop schedules which are disrupted as little as possible by reactive scheduling after disruptions occur. We present a number of heuristics and computational results.

1) Automatic Packing of Irregular Shapes - Its Application to Several Industrial Sectors, J. C. Bernardo / N E S C, 17 V Duque D'Avila 23, Apartado 13069, 1000 Lisbon, Portugal, J. L. Fernandes / N E S C, 17V. Duque D'Avila 23, Apartado 13069, 1000 Lisbon, Portugal This paper presents results of the work that the CAD/CAM team of INESC has been done in order to develop several interactive and automatic Nesting Systems for different industrial applications. An Object Packing Library was implemented to create a genetic, expandible, easy to use functional base, for all those systems.

2) Cutting Software for the Footwear Industry, J.G. Stoyan / Inst For Problems IN Machinery, 2/10 Pozharsky St, Kharkove 310046, Ukraine On a rectangular sheet of material (rubber, artificial leather etc.) a maximum number of items (elements of footwear bottoms) have to be located. A mathematical model for this problem is formulated. Methods and algorithms to solve the problem are suggested. A software system is also presented.

3) Polynomial Time Solvability of Some Unconstrained Cutting Stock Problems, A.G. Tarnowski / Univ of Belarus-Dept of Math Problems IN C A D, Fac of Appld Math & Info, Francishak Skaryna Av 4, 220080 Minsk, Belarus The general cutting stock problem is NP-hard. However, it will be shown that several classes of one-dimensional cutting stock problems (knapsack problems), guillotine pallet loading problems and unconstrained cutting stock problems with two rectangles can be solved in polynomial time. Exact polynomial-time algorithms are presented for these problems.

1) Agency Theory, Risk Propensity and Marketing Services, R. Susan Ellis / Univ of Sydney, Grad School of Bus, Univ of Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia Agency Theory contains within it the assumption that the principal and agent have specific risk propensities. The stretching or outright violation of this assumption is explored as it relates to contracts for marketing services such as advertising agencies and sales promotion firms.

2) A New Form of Salesforce Control System and its Role in Implementing Market Orientation Strategy, Philip Pidcock / Bond Univ, Sch of Business, Gold Coast, Qld, 4229, Australia, Robert E. Widing / Univ of Melbourne, Grad Sch of Mgt, 200 Leicester St, Carlton, Vic, 3053, Australia, Gene Brown / Louisiana Tech Univ, Dept Mgt & Mktg, Ruston, LA 71272, USA Successful implementation of market orientation depends partially on the choice of salesforce control system. The authors propose a behavioural outcome control system which differs from traditional outcome- and behaviour-based systems by including customers in the control feedback loop, thereby aligning the firm's market orientation goals with the salesperson's behaviours.

3) Examination of Exporter Channel Behaviour Using Agency Theory, Amal R. Karunaratna / Univ of Southern Queensland, Fac of Bus, Toowoomba Qld, 4350, Australia Agency Theory predicts that where an exporter has an agreement with an agent, an agent will pursue its own goals which may not co-align with those of the exporter. Where this divergence becomes extreme, the exporter may exit the market, use a set of governance structures or vertically integrate.

1) Characterizing and Computing Trade-offs in D E A, Dan Rosen / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Indus Eng, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto Ontario, Canada M5S 1A4, Claire Schaffnit / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Ind Engr, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto, Ont, Canada M5S 1A4, Joseph C. Paradi / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Industrial Engineering, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1A4 Of major importance to managerical policy is the knowledge of trade-offs. Technically, these represent partial derivatives on the production frontier. However, the piecewise linear surface constructed by D E A results in discontinuous derivatives at the break points. We present three approaches for obtaining a proper characterization of these slopes in D E A. One of the methods further generates any two-dimensional section of the frontier.

2) Visualizing D E A, Claire Schaffnit / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Ind Engr, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto, Ont, Canada M5S 1A4, Dan Rosen / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Indus Eng, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto Ontario, Canada M5S 1A4, Joseph C. Paradi / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Industrial Engineering, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1A4 D E A has been defined, quite rightly, as a "new way of organizing and analyzing data". In the spirit of this definition, we present some visual interactive tools for managerial application. Exploiting several simple basic properties of the D E A results, these tools allow analysts to realize the full potential of the method.

3) Measuring Inefficiency in DEA, Agha Iqbal Ali / Univ of Mass, General Bus & Finance, Sch of Mgmt, Amherst, MA 01003, USA This talk focuses on the measurement of inefficiency in various DEA models. Included in the discussion are distance measures, radial measures, and ratio measures. The computation of these measures for DEA models that have extended features (nondiscretionary variables, price-ratio constraints, etc.) is explained via examples.

4) Discussion: On Model Selection for DEA Applications, Joseph C. Paradi / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Industrial Engineering, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1A4, Dan Rosen / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Indus Eng, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto Ontario, Canada M5S 1A4, Claire Schaffnit / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Ind Engr, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto, Ont, Canada M5S 1A4 We discuss the necessity for practitioners to work within a consistent and systematic framework for model selection. This requires the explicit formulation of model preference criteria, together with an assessment of the effects of possible choices on the analysis. One such model evaluation framework is presented, with several examples.

5) Variables That are Both Outputs and Inputs in D E A, Ajay Maindiratta / New York Univ, 40 West 4th St, Tisch Hall, New York, NY 10012, USA, Rebecca Todd / Boston Univ, USA In many D E A settings, eg. the study of police precinct performance, some variable is in a sense both an output and an input. Both "number of arrests" and "arrest cases cleared" are outputs which, ceteris paribus, can be expected to increase with more of the usual inputs like manpower. However, the former is also an input into obtaining cleared cases. In hospital performance analysis "number of beds" is a similar variable. We explore two D E A models for such situations with an application to NYPD data.

1) Heuristic Methods for a Class of Scheduling Problems, Jiye Han / Institute of Appl Math, Academia Sinica, Beijing 100080, PR China

2) Study on the Structure Optimization Strategy of Constructed Feedforward Neural Networks, Hui Su / Tsinghua Univ, Dept of Automation, Tsinghua, Beijing, 100084 P.R, China, Wei Wang / Tsinghua Univ, Dept of Automation, Tsinghua, Beijing, 100084 P.R, China, Shaowei Xia / Tsinghua Univ, Dept of Automation, Tsinghua, Beijing, 100084 P.R, China On the basis of a new FNN (feedforward neural network) construction method and the discussion of the structure optimization strategy of constructed FNN, a method that enhances the generalization ability of every hidden neuron using a volume function and prunes away redundant hidden neurons is systematically reviewed. Then the idea and steps of combining generalization regions of hidden neurons are presented. An example is also given.

3) New Techniques for Hierarchical Optimization, Cang - Pu Wu / Beijing Inst of Tech, P O Box 327, Beijing, 100081, P R China In a two level decision making system, an upper level decision maker (DM) has only information of the lower level subsystems that the optimal policies adopted by the lower level DM which are determined by the optimization of local utility of the subsystems and the coordinating parameters. The upper DM should find out an optimal policy for the overall system.

1) Theory and Applications of MC2 Linear Programming, Yong Shi / Univ of Nebraska At Omaha, Coll of Bus Admin, Room 310-D, Omaha, NE 68182-0048, USA This tutorial introduces the main research results about MC2 linear programming that cover from theoretical bases to broad areas of real-world applications: 1. Relationships between linear programming, multiple criteria linear programming, and MC2 linear programming. 2. MC2 linear programming and production system designs. 3. Fuzzy sets approaches to solving MC2 linear programming problems. 4. Fuzzy duality theory in MC2 linear programming. 5. Computer software development for solving MC2 linear programming problems. 6. Algorithms of solving complex production system design problems. 7. Applications in accounting, management information systems, production planning, and telecommunication management.

1) Research Strategies Resulting in OR/MS Publications: A Statistical Analysis of Papers in Flagship Journals, Arnold Reisman / Case Western Reserve Univ, Dept of Oper Res, Cleveland, OH 44106-7235, USA, Frank A Kirschnick / The Siemens Co, Munich, Germany It is possible to divide research strategies into 7 process categories: ripple, embedding, bridging, transfer of technology, creative application, structuring, and empirical validation. The purpose of this paper is to examine how often OR/MS workers use these processes. To this end, it analyzes the contents of the papers in the 1992 issues of Operations Res., Mgt. Sci. & Int. The paper also sets forth the full spectrum of results for all seven processes and reaches some conclusions with implications for the future of operations research and management science.

2) Technology Policy in SMEs, Louis A Lefebvre / Ecole Polytechnique, C.P. 6079, Succ Centre-Ville, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7, Elisabeth Lefebvre / Ecole Polytechnique, Dept of Ind Eng, 2900 Edouard Montpetit, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7, Robert Mason / Case Western Reserve Univ, 10900 Euclid Av, Cleveland, OH 44106 7235, USA This paper examines the moderating influence of the perceived external environment on the relationships between: 1. technology policy and the overall strategic orientation of the firm, its structural characteristics and process; 2. technology policy and realized innovative efforts. Results from an on-site detailed field study in 84 SMEs operating in the same industrial sector strongly suggest a need for better knowledge as to how managers and executives form their perceptions of the environment.

3) Expediting Defense Innovations: The Canadian Experience, Vinod Kumar / Carleton Univ, School of Business, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1S 5B6, Uma Kumar / Carleton Univ, School of Business, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1S 5B6 This research is concerned with exploring ways of shortening the defence related innovation cycle time. Through an empirical study of 75 medium to large size Canadian defence firms, we identify the major controllable factors related to government policies, the state of the technological infrastructure, and the firm's management policies and practices which have the greatest impact on the turnaround time and learn about their roles as facilitators or inhibitors in the innovation process.

1) Optimal Market Segmentation with Individual Demand Curves, Shaul P Ladany / Dept of Industrial Engineering, Ben-Gurion Univ, P O Box 653, Beer Sheva 84105, Israel The general optimal market segmentation pricing strategy is formulated for the case in which each market segment possesses its own demand function, and it is applied to a hotel environment. An efficient single state-variable Dynamic Programming solution model is developed, and a numerical example is provided for a 400 room hotel.

2) Money-back Guarantees: Helping Market Experience Goods, Eitan Gerstner / Univ of California, Davis, Grad Sch of Mgt, Davis, CA 95616, USA, Scott Davis / Univ of California-Davis, Grad Sch of Mgt, Davis, CA 95616, USA, Michael Hagerty / Univ of California-Davis, Grad School of Mgt, Davis, CA 95616, USA Selling experience goods is difficult because consumers cannot fully evaluate these products before purchase. To reduce consumer risk of poor product matching, some sellers offer consumers money-back guarantees. We derive conditions under which these guarantees work best to enhance profits and social welfare. Empirical evidence is presented to support the theoretical results.

3) Models of Strategy Under Different Economic Systems, L L Jayaraman / Montclair State Univ, Sch of Bus Admin, Dept of Mgmt, G-433, Upper Montclair, NJ 07043, USA Most of the countries of the world are adopting some mix of free market economics and political democracy to promote growth and prosperity. In this paper, I have developed a matrix of different combinations of the above, using surrogate measures for each axis. Each cell position in the matrix can represent a unique set of competitive parameters, requiring appropriate strategies. Examples from selected countries are used to develop policy implications for managers of business enterprises.

4) Productivity and Its Relationship with Competitive Strategy Formulation, Celik Parkan / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, AR Dept, 83 Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong We report on the results of interviews with various organizations in the manufacturing and service sectors in Hong Kong and China. The purpose of the interviews was to understand the prevailing perception of the concept of productivity, its relationship with operational competitiveness, and its significance in strategy formulation.

1) Helpdesk Facilitator, Sew Bun Foong / Natl Univ of Singapore, Inst of Sys Sci, Heng Mui, Keng Terrace, Kent Ridge, Singapore, 0511, Sinapore, David Law Yuh Foong / Centre For Natl Product Res, I M C B, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Sinapore No abstract attached.

2) Domain Knowledge Representation for Extracting Information from Financial Messages, Tong Loong Cheong / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Inst of Sys Sci, Heng Mui Keng Terr Kent Ridge, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Angela Wee Li Kwang / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Inst of Sys Sci, Heng Mui Keng Terr Kent Ridge, Singapore, 0511, Singapore The banking sector processes thousands of free-form test messages each day, including application forms, faxes, telexes, memos, and reports. Many support staff are deployed to manually extract relevant information from these messages for updates to databases and report generation. Advanced information technology, especially natural language processing (NLP) techniques, is beginning to play an important role in automating this information extraction (IE) task. One of the major challenges in IE is how to represent the domain knowledge that is required in this task. This paper will present these knowledge representation issues in the context of an IE system that combines a directed graph text structure, a domain ontology and a template (frame) representation into an integrated practical system for extracting information from financial messages.

3) Knowledge Acquisition for Knowledge-Based Systems, A. Armoni / Tel-Aviv Univ, College of Mgmt, 9 Persitz St, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel, P. Ein-Dor / Tel-Aviv Univ, College of Mgmt, 9 Persitz St, Tel-Aviv, 69978, Israel Until now, very little attention has been paid to the question of the consistency and accuracy of expert estimates, in developing expert systems in areas requiring the estimation of probability of events. In this research a multi-stage methodology was developed to elict knowledge requiring subjective judgment. Results and conclusions from an empirical application in the field of medical diagnosis are also presented.

4) A Fuzzy Knowledge-Based Corporate Rating System, Laurence Liew / Blk 10 #06-141, Telok Blangah Crescent, Singapore, S0409, Singapore A fuzzy knowledge-based system has been developed to rate companies listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange. The inputs to the system are key financial ratios to determine intermediate scores of earnings, leverage, and liquidity. The three scores are combined further to obtain a final company rating.

5) Decision Support System for Time Series Forecasting, Dan W. Patterson / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Inst of Sys Sci, Kent Ridge, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Patrick Chan / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, I S S, N U S, Kent Ridge, Singapore, 0511, Singapore A flexible support system for time series forecasting is developed using a novel neural network architecture. The network includes a front-end processor to smooth the series and present different degrees of resolution to the model. Pruning is performed using information theoretic approach.

1) Billboards on the Information Superhighway: A Survey of Commercial Activities on the Internet, Thomas I M Ho / Indiana Univ, Purdue Univ Indianapolis, Dept of Comp Tech, Indianapolis, IN 46202-5132, USA Recent media exposure of the Internet highlights the emergence of commercial activities on the net. This phenomenon has been chronicled both in print as well as on the Internet itself. This paper is a contribution to the growing body of print and electronic resources on electronic commerce. Especially, the development of the Internet's World Wide Web encouraged by the wide acceptance of Mosaic has motivated this phenomenon.

2) Telecommunications, Library Technology, and their Impact on User Behavior in an Academic Library, Lester J Pourciau / Univ of Memphis, Univ Libraries, Memphis, TN 38152, USA Faculty and students returning to the University of Memphis in the fall of 1994 found a new library builging outfitted with state-of-the-art information handling and processing technology. This paper discusses managerial steps taken to adapt to altered user requests for assistance with this technology.

1) Perception and Information in a Locational Game, H. A. Eiselt / Univ of New Brunswick, Fac of Admin, P O Box 4400, Fredericton, NB, Canada E3B 5A3 Consider a situation in which two competitors locate one facility each at the vertices of a tree. Their decisions are based on the expected demands at the vertices of the tree. As opposed to the usual models, we assume that the true demands are unknown and that each competitor has its own perception of them. In addition, neither duopolist is aware of its competitor's perception. In the resulting hypergame, we determine Stackelberg solutions and investigate whether or not the leader in the game has an advantage.

2) On the Airline Hub Problem: The Continuous Model, Atsuo Suzuki / Nanzan Univ, Dept of Info Sys & Quant Sci, Agoya, 466, Japan, M. Sassaki / Anazan Univ, Dept of Info Sys & Quant Sci, Nagoya, Japan, Zvi Drezner / California State Univ, Dept of Mgt Sci & Info Sys, Fullerton, CA 92634, USA The location of hubs in an area where airports are evenly spread is considered. Two models are presented and analyzed. The first assumes that customers fly to the closest hub, then to the hub closest to their destination, and then to their destination. The second model assumes that customers select one hub, fly to theat hub and then fly to their destination. The hub is selected such that the total distance to the destination via that hub is minimized.

3) On the Logit Approach to Competitive Facility Location, Zvi Drezner / California State Univ, Dept of Mgt Sci & Info Sys, Fullerton, CA 92634, USA, George Wesolowsky / McMaster Univ, Fac of Bus, Hamilton Ontario, Canada L8S 4M4, Tammy Drezner / Calif State Univ, Dept of Mktg, Fullerton, CA 92634, USA The random utility model in competitive facility location is one approach to estimating the market share captured by a facility in the competitive environment. We show that the random utility model can be approximated by a Logit model. The proporation of the buying power at a demand point which is attracted to the new facility can be approximated by a Logit function of the distance to it.

1) Service Networks: Modelling, Analysis and Inference, Avi Mandelbaum / Technion I I T, Fac of Ind Engr & Mgt, Haifa, 3200, Israel Service networks are models of queueing-prone service operations, subject to some interaction between human customers and servers (face-to-face, phone-to-phone,...). Service systems often operate over finite-time horizons, and employ heterogeneous servers, whose service rate is time and state-dependent. This paper describes case analysis, empirical studies and theoretical research of service networks, mostly based on real data. The framework is that of queueing networks which, so far, have been developed and applied mainly in communication, computer and manufacturing environments.

1) Designing Rosters Using Linear Programming, N B Beaumont / Monash Univ, 900 Dandenong Rd, Caulfield East, 3145, Australia The solution of a practical problem of designing staffing rosters is described. The demand varied strongly with time of day and day of week and had to be met 24 hours/day 365 days/year. Mixed Integer Programming was used to design optional rosters subject to agreement with the union.

2) User Perception of Information Products and Job Attitudes, Francis Parvi / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, Singapore 0511, Singapore, James Ang / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Decision Sci, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Soh Pek Hooi / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Dec Sci, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore This study was designed to explore the relationship between UIS and job satisfaction. The short-form UIS and the short-form Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire were used to measure the constructs. It was found that UIS provides a good indicaiton of user attitudes.

3) Computer Aided Optimal Concrete Mix Design, R. Krishnamoorthy / Coimbatore Inst of Tech, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India, N. Joseph Wesley / Coimbatore Inst of Tech, George Architects Pvt. Ltd., Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India In this paper an attempt is made to present a rational and computer aided optimal concrete mix design. This paper deals with the formulation of an optimization model and development of software for an economical concrete mix design. Using this software concrete mix design has been done and compared with the popular methods.

4) Optimization Methods in the Silk Industry, B.G. Raghavendra / Indian Inst of Science, Dept of Mgmt Studies, Bangalore, 560-012, India Recently, OR methods have attempted to improve the efficiency of operations in the Indian Silk Industry. We present case studies involving the use of LP models in Silk Filature Units. Use of other optimization models and simulation in Cocoon Rearing, Silk Reeling and Weaving operations are also discussed briefly.

5) Optimization of Animal Feed Mix with Special Reference to Poultry in India - A Case Study, R. Prabhakar / Kasbah Systems Software, 53-54 Race Course Rd, Coimbatore 641 018, India, S R K Prasad / Kasbah Systems Software, India In this paper, a case study has been presented with live data and results for optimization of feed formulation for the poultry industry. A software has been developed to work on MS-WINDOWS 3.1 environment using VISUAL C++ called "POULFEED" and the solutions provided have been very effective in tackling this problem area.

1) Company Characteristics & Quality Improvement Tools in U.S. Manufacturing Firms, Hassan K Hosseini / Amer Grad Sch of Intn'L Mgt, Thunderbird Campus, Glendale, AZ 85306, USA

2) TQM in the Brazilian Army: Toward the 21st Century, Paulo Afonso L Da Silva / Military Inst of Eng, PR Gen Tiburcio, 80-De/9-Urca, 22290, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

3) Has TQM Arrived in Thailand?, Dayr A. Reis / Univ of Wisconsin - LA Crosse, 418 D North Hall, College of Bus, La Crosse, WI 54601, USA

4) Competitive Strategies and Management Practices of Leading Firms with Total Quality Initiatives, T.D. Macedo-Soares / Pontifical Catholic Univ, Puc-Rj, Rua Marques de Sao Vicente 225, 22451-041, Rio DE Janeiro, Brazil, Debora C. Lucas / Pontifical Catholic Univ, Puc-Rj, Rua Marques de Sao Vicente 225, 22451-041, Rio DE Janeiro, Brazil Management practices of leading firms with total quality initiatives have increasingly been considered benchmarks for other firms in quest of successful competitive technologies. This paper shares relevant findings of a pilot study of 100 leading firms in Brazil. By way of a comparison with other countries, namely the US, it highlights quality practices in Brazil that are significant from an international perspective.

5) Quality Management and the Competitiveness of the Oil Distribution Industry in Brazil, T.D. Macedo-Soares / Pontifical Catholic Univ, Puc-Rj, Rua Marques de Sao Vicente 225, 22451-041, Rio DE Janeiro, Brazil, C. Pacheco / Pontifical Catholic Univ, Puc-Rj, Rua Marques de Sao Vicente 225, 22451-041, Rio DE Janeiro, Brazil Drawing upon extensive field research, this paper discusses the role of quality management, among other critical factors, for ensuring the competitiveness of the oil distribution industry in Brazil, in face of the new challenges created by the increasing liberalization and deregulation of its economy.

1) A BPR Methodology Arising from the Analysis of Failure, Chan-Meng Khoong / Info Tech Inst, 71 Science Park Dr, Ncb Building, Singapore, 0511, Rep of Singapore We present a BPR methodology in routine use that is holistic in its treatment of the interacting issues of technological change, business, and culture. The methodology also emphasizes detailed process analysis techniques. The evolution of this methodology has been motivated by a continuing analysis of BPR failures and cross-cultural differences in BPR relevance.

2) Designing Management Systems for Enhancing Innovation, Urs Daellenbach / Univ of Calgary, Fac of Mgt, 2500 University Dr N W, Calgary, Ab, Canada T2N 1N4 The advantages and challenges associated with alternative management systems for R&D and technology are considered. Proposals for balancing new technology "push" and "pull" are developed. A survey of the oil & gas industry in North America provides examples and empirical analyses related to R&D success.

3) Dynamic Models for BPR: A Case Study, G M Prabhu / Iowa State Univ, 231 Atanasoff Hall, Ames, IA 50011, USA, Jaya Sinnathamby / I N T E R C O, 6900 Main St, Ste 156, Downers Grove, IL 60516, USA Some of the existing approaches for business process reengineering (BPR) jump directly into designing breakthrough business processes without a clear sense of all the activities involved in successfully transforming an organization. We believe that business transformation consists of concurrent activities along three dimensions, namely, organization, business, and technology. The objective of this paper is to report on a successful case study that used a combination of models to study the dynamics of business processes and support environments for BPR.

4) Economic Justification of Business Process Reengineering Projects, Francois Bergeron / Univ Laval, Dept of Info Sys, Fac of Mgt, Quebec, Que, Canada G1K 7P4, Moez Limayem / Univ of Lavel, Dept of Info Sys, Fac of Mgt, Quebec, Que, G1K 7P4, Canada The financial and organizational justification of Business Process Reengineering projects is a difficult task and one that is not easily supported by available tools and techniques. The results of a survey and case studies are presented. They illustrate the wide variety in the use of such tools by project managers.

Tuesday 11:30-12:45

1) Loco-global Banking Strategies to Take Advantage of Market Opportunities: An Italian Experience, Alfredo Parisi / Luiss Univ Rome, Rome, Italy Ability to develop and implement loco-global strategies to cover specialized niches of the financial markets is the core business of the new banking industries that combine home and global strategy levers. Some strategies dimensions are considered to compete globally when the bank is local.

2) Competitive Technologies in the Banking Industry: A Comparison Between Brazil and Leading Industrialized Nations, T.D. Macedo-Soares / Pontifical Catholic Univ, Puc-Rj, Rua Marques de Sao Vicente 225, 22451-041, Rio DE Janeiro, Brazil, A. Dusl / Pontifical Catholic Univ, Puc-Rj, Rua Marques de Sao Vicente 225, 22451-041, Rio DE Janeiro, Brazil In the face of the country's highly complex financial structure and challenging new economic scenario, the Brazilian banking industry is increasingly integrating quality management technologies with its sophisticated information management strategies. This paper purports to highlight some of this industry's best practices by way of a comparison between research findings on management practices of representative retail banks in Brazil and results of relevant suveys in leading industrialized countries.

3) Time/Cost Tradeoffs in Loan Processing, Joyce Mehring / Univ of Massachusetts, One University Av, Lowell, MA 01854, Faced with highly variable loan volume and several response time measures for each loan, credit companies find selecting staff and equipment levels and competitive performance levels is a challenge. This paper presents mathematical programming models that have helped loan processing managers understand the tradeoff between costs (labor & equipment) and response time performance levels.

4) Banking Effectiveness to Create Industry Attractiveness: The Italian Experience, Giovanni Rotino / Mediocredito Centrale, Via Piemote, 5100187, Rome, Italy, Giovanni Morelli / Mediocredito Centrale, Via Piemote, 5100187, Rome, Italy Capital is essential for the viability of any industry, particularly small and medium companies. Banking structure became crucial for growth, allowing them to take opportunities which resulted in the new competitive climate of 1990s, and hence to recognize the benefits and sustainability and prepare global strategies to maintain advantage.

5) An E S to Harness the Change Process in the 90s Banking Industry, Marialuisa E A Ceprini / M I T, Sloan School of Business, 50 Memorial Dr E52-442, Cambridge, MA 02139-4307, USA A financial institution needs to rely on an innovative strategic system of I T to have an advantage delivering superior corporate quality FS. Financial models of I O critical factors including Financial Services Quality Management, Business Strategy, Financial Banking Performance,and Organization Structure, are converted in interactive procedures to run the F S.

1) Strategic and Organizational Factors Affecting Competitive Outcomes in Global Financial Services, Elaine Mosakowski / Univ of Calif-L A, Anderson Grad Sch of Mgmt, 405 Hilgard Av, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA, Srilata Zaheer / Univ of Minnesota, 835 Mgmt & Econ Bldg, 271 19th Av South, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA This paper examines how organizational, strategic, and technological factors influence the competitive successes or failures of firms providing market-making services in the global foreign exchange market. This work draws upon the research on the boundaries of the firm and organizational economics to develop hypotheses concerning the efficient mechanisms for governing the "market talk" transaction in foreign exchange trading. We propose a model of competitive advantage and test it with data from the population of banks that engage in interbank FX trading from 1972 until 1993.

2) A Database Simulation Solution to the Global Financial Reporting Problem, Ravi Parameswaran / Oakland Univ, Dept of D I S, S B A, ROChester, MI 48309-4401, USA, Mohamed S. Bazaz / Oakland Univ, Dept of Accounting & Finance, S B A, ROChester, MI 48309-4401, USA Harmonizing International Accounting Reports has been a primary pre-occupation for international accounting and finance for the past 25 years. An acceptable solution has yet to be found. The current paper proposes a database solution to the problem and demonstrates a prototypical application using GPSSH simulation. Alternation strategies are explored in this simulation.

3) Financial Deregulation in Global Perspective, J. C. Anwayu / Not Available. Over the years the economies of LDCs had been financially repressed. With SAP (Structural Adjustment Programme), the recommended cure - financial deregulation - had been adopted by many of these countries since the 1980s. Using cointegration and the error-correction model, the impact on the giant of Africa (nigeria) is tested, apart from a general analysis and discourse of the experience of Sub-Saharan Africa.

1) Performance Analysis of the IEEE 802.12 Demand-Priority Access Method, Winston K G Seah / Kyoto Univ, Div of Appl Sys Sci, Fac of Engr, Kyoto 606, Japan, Yutaka Takahashi / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-01, Japan, Toshiharu Hasegawa / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, 606-01, Japan In this paper, we present simulation results of the mean message waiting times in a local area network using the Demand-Priority access method with two message priority classes: high- and normal-priority. This access method is employed in the 100VG-AnyLAN protocol which the IEEE 802.12 is currently working on.

2) A Hybrid Performance Evaluation Tool for Queueing Models, Hideki Nishimura / Kyoto University, Yoshida-Honmachi Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-01, Japan, Hiroyuki Kawano / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-01, Japan, Yutaka Takahashi / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-01, Japan, Toshiharu Hasegawa / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, 606-01, Japan We develop a performance evaluation tool incorporated with queueing analysis and simulation method. Our tool has a graphical user interface which facilitates users to describe queueing models. While simulation result is always obtained for a given model, performance measures are calculated based on queueing theory only if any analytical result is available for the model.

3) Data Mining Technology for Network Management, Hiroyuki Kawano / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto 606-01, Japan, Toshiharu Hasegawa / Kyoto Univ, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, 606-01, Japan In large and complex computer networks, technology of Data Mining in MIB (Management Information Base) provides very powerful management methods in order to identify error conditions and to discover dynamic patterns. In cooperation with ECA rules in active database system, the simple errors are recovered, or troubles are notified to administrators.

1) Location-Area Partition in a Cellular Network, Young-Soo Myung / Dankook Univ, Dept of Bus Admin, Ahnseo-Dong 29, Cheonan, Chungnam, 330714, Korea, Dong-Wan Tcha / Kaist, Dept of Mgmt Sci, 373-1 Kusong-Dong, Yusung-Gu, Taejon, 305-701, Korea, Taek-Jin Choi / Kaist, Dept of Mgmt Sci, 373-1 Kusong-Dong, Yusong-Gu, Taejon, 305-701, Korea One of the most important control issues for a cellular network is how to manage the signalling traffics. Here we consider the problem of minimizing the total signalling traffic for paging and location updating by optimally partitioning the whole area into location areas, the basic area units for paging.

2) Dynamic Location Registration and Paging in Microcellular Systems, Seok-Jun Kim / Kaist, Dept of Mgmt Sci, Kusung Dong 373-1, Taejon, Korea, Chae Young Lee / Kaist, Dept of Mgmt Sci, Kusung Dong 373-1, Taejon, Korea An 0-1 integer programming model is considered to determine the most appropriate dynamic locaton registration (LR) area of each subscriber in microcellular systems. The minimization model of the LR area updating and paging signal cost is based on the subscribers' characteristics such as the call arrival rate and the velocity as well as the regional information. A dynamic LR area updating scheme is developed and the computational superiority is demonstrated.

3) A Model for Estimating Optimal Insurance Coverage for Communication Satellite Missions, Sushanta Srivastava / At&T Bell Lab, 101 Crawfords Corner Rd, Room 2E-333, Holmdel, NJ 07733, USA Communications satellite missions are typically high risk. A methodology is developed for optimal insurance coverage that minimizes financial risk. Sample results will be presented.

4) Experiments with Wireless Devices, Osamu Yoshida / I B M Japan Services, 1-53 Nisshin-Cho, Kawasaki-Ku, Kawasaki-Shi, Kanagawa 210, Japan I B M Japan Services Business has carried out experiments using portable devices over the wireless networks in Tokyo area, Teleterminal, personal handy phone system and cellulars with 3270 emulation, screen copy and B B S Gateway methods to identify both technical and operational requirements for call dispatching and message exchange from user perspective.

1) A Prototype for a Graphical Structured Modeling System, Tarun Sen / Virginia Tech, Dept of Acctg, The R B Pamplin Coll of Bus, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA, Kaushal Chari / James Madison Univ, Dept of Info & Dec Services, Coll of Bus Admin, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, USA This prototype for a graphical structured modeling system enables users to formulate and solve graphical models for a wide range of tasks. The system has a Windows interface and features that include a graph editor, a query facility, and a solver that generates elemental detail tables.

2) The Features of a Model Management System, Cosimo Spera / Univ of Sinna, Pzza, S Francesco 8, 53100 Siena, Italy, Marco Gagliardi / Univ of Rome "La Sapienza", P.Zza, A. Moro 17, 00100 Roma, Italy This talk describes the main features of MODASS (MOdel Definition And Solution System), whose models are written in an object-oriented modeling language (BLOOMS) that follows the core concepts of Structured Modeling. We emphasize how MODASS does model integration, and also the communications among a model instance, the database and solver, and model results reporting and documentation.

3) Mathematical Programming Languages in a Distributed Object World, Richard G. Ramirez / Iowa State Univ, 300 Carver Hall, Ames, IA 50511-2063, USA A new world order of software connectivity is offered by CORBA and alike distributed object sharing standards. New languages will focus on shareable semantic structures and operations, reducing emphasis on non-modeling tasks. Structured Modeling is the foundation for a prototype language and implementation.

4) Rapid Prototyping of Optimization-Based Decision Support Systems, Arthur Geoffrion / UCLA, Anderson Grad Sch of Mgmt, 405 Hilgard Av, 6249A Agsm, Los Angeles, CA 90024-1481, USA, Sergio Maturana / Pontificia Univ Catholic Chile, Escuela de Ingenierma, Casilla 306, Correo 22, Santiago, Chile, Fernando Vicuna / Tandem Chile S.A., Agustinas 640, Piso 10, Santiago, Chile This paper discusses the implementation of optimization-based decision support systems. An approach is proposed for quickly generating fully functional prototypes for certain types of optimization problems. The implementation of a production planning DSS and of a purchasing DSS are presented as examples of this approach.

1) Panel:Information Systems Development Project Failures: Issues and Perspectives, Kweku Ewusi-Mensah / Loyola Marymount Univ, Loyola Blvd At West 8Oth St, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA, Richard J. Ormerod / Warwick Univ, Warwick Bus Sch, Coventry, Cv4 7Al, U K, Effy Oz / Wayne State Univ, 5229 Cass Ave., Detroit, MI 48202, USA, Michael Chan / Massey Univ, New Zealand This panel will discuss characteristics of IS development projects which make them susceptible to cancellations and examine the extent of the practice within companies. Some specific issues which will be discussed are: what factors contribute to decisions of IS development project abandonment? What characteristics do abandoned projects have in common? How are such decisions undertaken and what are the consequences of such decisions on the companies and their IS staff? What are ethical issues involved? What benefits or lessons, if any, do or should organizations derive from past decisions to abandon projects?

1) Managing Information Technology Internationally: The Global Versus Local Paradox Revisited, Sirkka Jarvenpaa / Univ of Texas At Austin, C B A 5.202, M S I S, Austin, TX 78712-1175, USA The paper develops four alternative schools of thought on how information technology (IT) should be best managed to advance a firm's overall capability to manage the global versus local paradox in its operations. A contingency framework is presented.

2) An Emergent Management Information Systems (MIS) Paradigm, B. J. Garner / Deakin Univ, Geelong Campus, Vic, 3217, Australia In an era of enterprise re-engineering characterised by the rapid adoption of electronic trading, the role of the strategic planning process, and elaboration of the MIS requirements in particular, is crucial in aligning IT strategy with the business plan. This paper explores modern electronic trading strategies and describes contemporary examples of an emergent MIS paradigm with novel and original properties.

3) Information Technology Management in the Hospitality Industry, Ann Nguyen / Griffith Univ, Fac of Eng & Appl Sci, Pmb 50, Gold Coast Mall Cntr, Qld 4217, Australia, John Van Rooy / Griffith Univ, Fac of Eng & Appl Sci, Pmb 50, Gold Coast Mall Cntr, Qld 4217, Australia Rapidly rising income levels in the Asia-Pacific region have led to an explosive growth in the international travel and hospitality industry. This study deals with the important but largely neglected issues concerning the management of information technology (IT) in the modern hospitality industry. The analysis is based on in-depth interviews with IT managers of international hotels in Queensland, Australia. Among the issues considered are the key determinants of growth in the use of IT, the appropriateness of the adopted technology (hardware, software and systems), and the importance of strategic planning and training.

4) The Impact of Business Planning-Information Systems Planning Integration on Information Systems Performance, Thompson Teo / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Decision Sciences, 10 Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore This paper empirically examines whether the commonly advocated axiom encouraging greater Business Planning-Information Systems Planning (BP-ISP) integration actually leads to better information systems performance. The results provide empirical validation of the importance of BP-ISP integration since it was found to have a positive impact on IS contributions to organizatinal performance.

1) Solving the Requirements Determination Problem Using GSS Technology, Gary W. Dickson / North Carolina State Univ, Dept of Bus Mgt, Box 7229, Raleigh, NC 27695-7229, USA An important step in problem solving is to establish the criteria for judging alternative solutions. Selecting new employees, deciding on a new organizational form, or choosing a new information technology represent diverse settings in which it is important to devleop decision making criteria. Three case studies illustrate how GSS can support "requirements determination": (

1) design and development of a Social Services IS, (

2) specification of requirements for a new Workers' Compensation processing system, and (

3) identification of work task priorities for a Technology Planning Department.

2) Supporting Soft Systems Thinking through Groupware: A Proposal, Kuldeep Kumar / Erasmus Univ, Dept of Info & Dec Sci, Rotterdam P O Box 1, 3000 Dr Rotterdam, The Netherlands, Sajda Qureshi / London Sch of Econ & Poli Sci, Info Sys Dept, Houghton St, London, Wc2A 2Ae, Great Britain Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) considers the design of information systems as a 'human activity.' In recognizing that individuals and groups may have different views of their problem situation, SSM provides a means by which their views may be explored. This presentation examines those aspects of SSM processes which may be enhanced by group decision support technologies while identifying those aspects of technology which may be detrimental to the spirit of SSM. It concludes with guidelines for supporting SSM using groupware.

3) A Group Problem Solving Approach to Designing Organizations & Info Systems: A Case Study at the Amsterdam Municiple Police Force, Gert-Jan De Vreede / Delft Univ of Tech, Sch of Sys Eng, Policy Analysis, And Mgt, Jaffalaan 5, 2600 Ga, The Netherlands, Gary W. Dickson / North Carolina State Univ, Dept of Bus Mgt, Box 7229, Raleigh, NC 27695-7229, USA This presentation addresses an approach to support modifications both in an organization and in its supporting information systems. The approach constitutes a blend of a problem solving approach with Group Decision Support technology to support design activities involving groups of problem owners and problems solvers. A case study with this approach at the Amsterdam Municipal Police Force illustrates its effectiveness and efficiency and points toward directions for enhancements.

4) Automated Support for Group Process Modelling, Doug Vogel / Univ of Arizona, Dept of Mgmt Info Sys, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA Business activities are modeled and analyzed as an aspect of business process re-engineering. Broad-based participation in this process has been shown to be particularly helpful in developing robust solutions that further have strong stakeholder "buy-in." Structured methodologies and techniques coupled with automated support become key aspects of effective and efficient process modeling. This paper addresses the iterative evolution and illustrates the application of automated support for group process modeling. Comparisons and contrasts are made with more traditional manual process modeling approaches. Special attention is given to tradeoffs between modeling efficiency and resultant model quality.

1) Finite Tandem Queues with Correlated Service Times, Ilze Ziedins / Univ of Auckland, Dept of Stat, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand Consider a tandem queue consisting of a series of first-in-first-out single-server finite capacity queues. We assume that the ith customer has the same service time, X(i), throughout. Some differences between queues with correlated and uncorrelated service times are explored. We also discuss how capacity should be allocated to maximise throughout.

2) Queues with Correlations, Ralph L. Disney / Texas A&M Univ, Dept of Ind Eng, College Station, TX 77843-3131, USA, D.C. Mcnickle / Canterbury Univ, Dept of Or, Christchurch, New Zealand This paper reports on the continuing research into correlated arrival and service time processes in queues.

3) Queues with Correlated Arrivals, D.C. Mcnickle / Canterbury Univ, Dept of Or, Christchurch, New Zealand, Ralph L. Disney / Texas A&M Univ, Dept of Ind Eng, College Station, TX 77843-3131, USA A class of queues with Markov-renewal arrival processes is considered. The influence of measures such as the Index of Dispersion for Intervals (IDI) on the queue-length process is discussed.

4) Markovian Queues with Correlated Arrival Processes, J.J. Hunter / Massey Univ, Dept of Statistics, Palmerston North, New Zealand, D.C. Mcnickle / Canterbury Univ, Dept of Or, Christchurch, New Zealand The effect of dependencies in the arrival process in single server queueing models is explored. Models assuming that the arrival is generated by the upper and lower Frechet bounds for bivariate distributions with specified marginals are considered.

1) Panel: Are Multiechelon Models Worth Implementing?, Steven Nahmias / Santa Clara Univ, Dept of Dec And Info Sci, Santa Clara, CA 95053, USA, Morris Cohen / Univ Pennsylvania, Wharton School, O P I M, Philadelphia, PA 19174, USA, Warren H. Hausman / Stanford Univ, Dept I E-E M, Stanford, CA 94305, USA, Paul Zipkin / Columbia Univ, Grad Sch of Bus, 416 Uris Hall, New York, NY 10027, USA There is a vast literature on multiechelon inventory models, but it would appear that most, if not all, commercial systems are based on simpler single echelon approaches. In this panel, we discuss our experiences with implementing multiechelon models and what advantages these models have in practical settings.

1) Shared Storage Policies in Warehouses, Pierre Montulet / Ecole Polytech, Math Appliquees, C P 6079 Succ Centre-Ville, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7, Andre Langevin / Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal, Dept of Math & Ind Engr, P O Box 6079, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7, Diane Riopel / Ecole Polytechnique, C.P. 6079, Succ. Centre-Ville, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 3A7, Canada Under shared policies, warehouse locations are not dedicated to products. Some shared policies have been shown to be more efficient than the corresponding turnover-based dedicated policies. We look at exact solutions for travel time optimization problems with relatively limited sizes and heuristic solutions for those with larger sizes.

2) Genetic Algorithm for Evaluation of Rule Sets in FMS Scheduling, Hideo Fujimoto / Nagoya Inst of Tech, Dept of Mech Eng, Gokiso-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466, Japan, Yuao Tanigawa / Nagoya Inst of Tech, Dept of Mech Eng, Gokiso-Cho, Showa-Ku, Nagoya, 466, Japan We consider job shop scheduling problems with a multistage decision making model. We present research on the relationship between scheduling rules and performance criterion using both simulation and a genetic algorithm. We investigate the performance of four kinds of decision making, i.e., job releasing, job dispatching, machine selection, and job pulling.

3) Production Functions and Productivity Measures in Flexible Manufacturing Systems, Roby Rajan / Univ of Wisconsin-Parkside, School of Bus, Box 2000, Kenosha, WI 53141-2000, USA All productivity measures have an implicit production function. When the manufacturing process does not conform to the additive assumption as is the case with FMS, the widespread use of productivity measures that assume additivity leads to faulty problem diagnosis, incorrect performance evaluation, and misdireacted corrective action. This paper discusses alternate production functions and their consequences for evaluation of FMS productivity.

4) One Machine Scheduling Problem with Fuzzy Allowable Time Constraint, Hiroaki Ishii / Osaka Univ, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita-Shi, Osaka, 565, Japan, Kanthen K Harikrishnan / Osaka Univ, Dept of Math Sci, Fac of Eng, Suita Osaka, 565, Japan We find nondominated schedules under the following setting. (

1) There exists one machine and n jobs with unit processing time to be processed. (

2) Fuzzy allowable time with respect to processing interval is associated with each job. (

3) Fuzzy precedence relation is specified between each pair of two jobs.

1) Finite Scheduling with Considerations of All Potential Capacity Constraint Resources, Shu-Hsing Chung / Nat'l Chiao Tung Univ, Dept of Ind Eng & Mgt, 1001 Ta Hsueh Rd, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Rep of China, Tien-Chun Hsu / Nat'l Chiao Tung Univ, Inst of Ind Eng, 1001 Ta Hsueh Rd, Hsinchu, Taiwan, Rep of China Identifying the non-bottleneck type Capacity Constraint Resources (CCR) is difficult since it is related with the production sequence of parts. This paper discusses how to identify all potential non-bottleneck CCR first and then present how to create the feasible schedule without looping.

2) Scheduling Back-End Operations for a Semiconductor Company, Fan-Tsong Tseng / Univ of Alabama-Huntsville, Dept of Mis/Msc, Admin Science Building 314, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA, Wen-Tse Chen / Nat'l Chiao Tung Univ, 4F 114 Section 1, Chung-Hsiao W. Rd, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC, Li-Jen Yeh / Nat'l Chiao Tung Univ, I M S, 4F 114 Sec 1, Chung Hsiao W Rd, Taipei 100, Taiwan, Rep of China, Her-Jiun Sheu / Nat'l Chiao Tung Univ, 4F 114 Section 1, Chung-Hsiao W. Rd, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC This paper presents a scheduling problem for the packaging/assembly operations of a semiconductor company. A general flowshop model is formulated. Computational results of heuristics are discussed.

3) A Tabu Search Approach for the Early/Tardy Flow Shop Scheduling Problem, Chi Chiang / Nat'l Chiao Tung Univ, Dept of Mgt Sci, Tsinchu, Taiwan, 300, R O C, Wen-Chyuan Chiang / Univ of Tulsa, Dept of Q M And M I S, 600 S. College, Tulsa, OK 74104, USA In this paper we present the early/tardy flow shop scheduling problem. We prove its NP-completeness. Intuitive heuristics and a tabu search algorithm are discussed. Finally, computational results are presented.

4) A Branch and Bound Approach for the One-Machine Total Weighted Tardiness Problem with Minimum Number of Tardy Jobs, Chen-Sin Lin / Bradley Univ, Dept of Ind & Manu. Eng & Tech, Peoria, IL 61625, USA We consider the problem of scheduling a set of n jobs on a single machine so as to minimize the total weighted tardiness subject to a constraint that the number of tardy jobs must be kept at a minimum value. A branch and bound algorithm is developed for solving the problem optimally.

1) Competitive Product Design and Positioning, Claire F P Chow / U C L A, Anderson Grad Sch of Mgt, 405 Hilgard Av, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA, Reza Ahmadi / Univ of California-Los Angeles, 405 Hilgard Av, Anderson Grad School of Mgt, Los Angeles, CA 90024 1481, USA In this paper we look at the impact of competition in product design and positioning. We propose a two-stage hierarchical approach to optimally determine the product positioning and product design characteristics. The overall conceptualization of the research has been motivated from aircraft design development.

2) Product Differentiation Under Positive Externalities, P S Giridharan / Carnegie Mellon Univ, Grad Sch of Indus Admin, Carnegie Mellon Univ, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA We consider products where there are positive externalities, i.e. the demand is a function of the number of existing customers, e.g., telecommunications. We show that when these externalities are dominant, the products will tend to look like each other and, in equilibrium, only one will survive.

3) How to Make a Computer/Video Game Fun?, Teck-Hua Ho / U C L A, 405 Hilgard Av, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA, Eng-Lian Lim / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Lower Kent Ridge Rd, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Josh Eliashberg / Univ of Penn, Mktg Department, Wharton School, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA We provide a methodology for evaluating new game features in the design of computer/video games. We report results from experiments and suggest how to make a popular game called Tetris more enjoyable. and suggest how to make a popular game called Tetris more enjoyable.

1) Religiosity Effects on Shopping Behaviors: A Comparative Study of the U.S. and New Zealand, Judy Siguaw / Univ of North Carolina, Cameron School of Business, Dept of Mgmt And Mktg, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA, Penny Simpson / Northwestern State Univ, Div of Business, Natchitoches, LA 71497, USA, Mathew Joseph / Univ of Waikato, Dept of Mkt And Intl Mgmt, Private Bag 3105, Hamilton, New Zealand The effects of religiousness on outshopping and Sunday shopping in the United States was compared with the same effects in New Zealand. Religiosity was found to affect the shopping behavior of respondents in both countries, although the effects in the U.S. were greater. Additionally, significant differences were found in key shopping behaviors.

2) A Cross-Cultural Analysis of Managerial Values in Four Countries, Lyn S. Amine / Saint Louis Univ, Dept of Mktg, 3674 Lindell Blvd, St. Louis, MO 63108, USA In 1980, Hofstede reported a classification of 40 countries along four value dimensions. Based on an empirical survey of managerial values in Morocco, Israel, India and Denmark, this study will attempt to confirm or disconfirm Hofstede's country classifications.

3) The Impact of Technophobia on the Usage of Technology Based Products, Bodo B. Schlegelmilch / Thunderbird-AGSIM, 15249 N. 59th Av, Glendale, AZ 85306, USA, Ram Sundaresan / Thunderbird-AGSIM, 15249 N. 59th Av, Glendale, AZ 85306, USA Consumer acceptance of new high-tech products can be impeded by anxiety and resistance to deal wht technology. This paper proposes a multi-item measurement scale aimed to capture the construct "technophobia". Subsequently, the scale is utilized to explore the linkages between technophobia and the cultural background of consumers. For the latter, a comparison is presented between a U.S. and a Latin American sample.

1) DEA and the Evaluation of Audit Risk, Paul Rouse / Univ of Auckland, Dept of Acctg & Finance, Private Bag, Auckland 92019, New Zealand Audit intensity and incidence is frequently determined by materiality and a set of subjective criteria, weighted by a predetermined set of weights. This tutorial describes how Data Envelopment Analysis can be used to help indentify, measure and evaluate the riskiness of units.

1) Composite Concave Programming and Its Applications, Moshe Sniedovich / Univ of Melbourne, Department of Mathematics, Parkville Vic 3052, Australia Composite concave programming (c-programming for short) is a new nonlinear parametric optimization method designed for combinatorial minimization problems whose objective functions have a composite concave structure. The parametric nature of c-programming enable it to extend the scope of operation of any optimization method in a systematic and uniform manner. In this tutorial, we shall examine the mathematical idiom of c-programming, the general nature of the algorithms that it forges, some of its natural and not-so-natural applications, and issues concerning the incorporation of c-programming topics into the Operations Research undergraduate curiculum. We shall also discuss some technical details concering the incorporation of c-programming algorithms into existing optimization software. In particular, we shall describe a prototype computer package called CCLP(P), which is based on a collaborative scheme between c-programming and the simplex method.

1) A New Fuzzy Linear Programming Model, Shu-Cherng Fang / North Carolina State Univ, O R, Box 7913, Raleigh, NC 27695-7913, USA, Soon-Yi Wu / Nat'l Cheng Kung Univ, Dept of Math, Tainan, Taiwan, R O C, Hsiao-Fan Wang / Nat'l Tsing Hua Univ, Dept of Indust Eng, Hsinchu, Taiwan, R O C Linear programming problems with both the constraint matrix A and right-hand-side vector b being convex fuzzy numbers are studied. A semi-infinite programming approach is proposed. The optimality conditions and a computational algorithm are also included.

2) Experiments with a Scalable Parallel Implementation of Stochastic Programming with Importance Sampling, J A Tomlin / I B M, Almaden Research Center, 650 Harry Rd, K53/802, San Jose, CA 95120-6099, USA, Gerd Infanger / Stanford Univ, Dept of Oper Res, Stanford, CA 94305, USA We describe a scalable parallel implementation for stochastic linear programming using Benders decomposition and importance sampling, employing OSL as the optimization engine on the SP1 platform. Particular attention is paid to load balancing and communication.

3) Monotonic Basis Build-up Algorithms for Network LPs, Norman Curet / Univ of Wisconsin-Stevens Pt., Dept of Math & Computing, Stevens Point, WI 54481, USA We describe several variants of a primal-dual simplex method which incrementally builds up the number of primal and dual feasible constraints. Computational results are presented that indicate these methods can outperform network simplex codes on NETGEN problems.

4) A Variant of Predictor - Corrector Algorithm for LP, Siming Huang / Hong Kong U of Sci & Tech, Dept of Ismt, Sbm, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Jishan Zhu / Dept of Dec Sci, Fac of Bus Admin, Singapore 0511, Singapore We present a variant of predictor - corrector algorithm. The algorithm takes larger steps during predictor steps, and will correct back to the central path in constant steps (e.g., 3 or

4). Furthermore, the objective function value wil reduce a constant during each corrector step.

5) Simplicial Methods for Minimizing Polyhedral Convex Functions, M. R. Osborne / Australian Nat'l Univ, Sch of Math Sci, Canberra A.C.T. 0200, Australia It is straight forward to write an LP for minimizing a polyhedral convex function, but this program may be both huge and extremely degenerate. However, the geometry of the problem suggests that simplicial methods should be attractive. A compact method for minimizing piecewise linear functions will be derived.

1) Technology Strategy Archetypes, E.L. "Al" Herman / 3120 NW John Olsen Av, # 27202, Hillsboro, OR 97124-7055, USA A research project is underway to study technology strategies in the U.S. electronics industry. Business level strategy and technology strategy literature have been reviewed to develop a set of strategy content and process dimensions. A field study is being conducted with 600 electroncs companies to gather information on technology strategy development and implementation. The results are being analyzed using multivariate statistical methods. Strategy content archetypes are being developed and analyzed to determine the relationships among technology strategy content, technology management processes, and the firm's performance.

2) Corporate Culture and Strategy, Tom Long / 14000 NW Mcnamee Rd, Portland, OR 97231, USA Companies have grown and prospered over time reaching a pinnacle of success only to decline afterwards. Many of these companies had superior technology, and large, well funded strategic planning groups, yet they ran into trouble. It is believed that the linkage between culture and strategy has a significant impact on performance of a corporation. This paper discusses the relationships among corporate culture, strategy and performance.

3) Technology as Enabler in High Customer Contact Manufacturing, Jean Harvey / Univ of Quebec At Montreal, PO Box 6192, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3C 4R2, Louis A Lefebvre / Ecole Polytechnique, C.P. 6079, Succ Centre-Ville, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7, Elisabeth Lefebvre / Ecole Polytechnique, Dept of Ind Eng, 2900 Edouard Montpetit, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7 As partners on the supply chain are working ever closer together, it seems that transfer of concepts between the manufacturing and service sectors is becoming a two-way street. Manufacturers are realizing that close customer relatonship is a source of enduring competitive advantage. Information technology (IT) can be an important "enabler" in this quest. This paper explores the gaps between current focus in IT implementation and what is needed to exploit this opportunity.

1) Inter-Organizational Cooperation in the Provision of High Complexity Services, Kulwant Singh / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Busi Policy, Kent Ridge, Singapore 0511 Firms commercializing high-complexity technologies face greater organizational and managerial challenges than other firms. High-complexity firms can address these challenges by accessing resources and capabilities through alliances. This paper tests whether firms commercializing high-complexity hospital software are more inclined to establish alliances than those commercializing less complex software.

2) Studying the Competition and Cooperation in Tech. Dev. Among Firms in an Ind. Through Patent Citation Analysis-the Case of Medical Devices, Xuesong Tong / N U S, Dept of Bus Policy, Singapore 0511, Singapore Using patent data acquired from the U.S. Patent and Trademark office, the author explored patent citations in several medical devices including endoscope, MRI and artificial heart. The study not only identified the key players in each field, but also illustrated the competitive positions of these key players through cross citation analysis.

3) The Dynamics of Subcontracting in the Aerospace Industry: An International Perspective, Louis A Lefebvre / Ecole Polytechnique, C.P. 6079, Succ Centre-Ville, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7, Elisabeth Lefebvre / Ecole Polytechnique, Dept of Ind Eng, 2900 Edouard Montpetit, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7, Mario Bourgault / Ecole Polytechnique And Cirano, 2020, University, 25th Floor, Montreal, H3A 3A5, Canada Preliminary empirical results from an international study on subcontracting practices will be presented. The results are derived from a mail-survey questionnaire addressed to the CEO of subcontracting firms operating in Canada, the United States and number of European countries. Special attention is paid to supplier network, in-firm technological development, and competencies as well as to economic and industrial environment.

4) Managing Technology Transfer: The Experience of Taiwan, Yiche Grace Chen / Yuan Ze Inst of Tech, 135 Yuan-Tung Rd, Nei-Li, Chung-Li, 320, Taiwan, Rep of China The role of technology transfer in S&T development and business competition has been inevitably important. Nevertheless, most companies in Taiwan are not so experienced in pursuing successful technology transfer. Through literature review and questionnaires, the author has established a framework for analyzing the decision-making mechanism and operational problems. Case studies have been conducted and suggestions both to government and business are made.

1) Supporting Team Reasoning Using and Argumentation Language, Bui Tung / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, Meral Binbasioglu / Hofstra Univ, 134 Hofstra Univ, Weller Hall #120, Hempstead, NY 11550, USA We propose an argumentation language to facilitate problem structuring in a groupwork setting. The proposed approach emphasizes on qualitative reasoning to support group problem definition and conflict resolution. The design of a prototype to support structuring of group knowledge is described along with its intended use.

2) Applying Neural Network in Financial Forecasting, Kar Yan Tam / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Info & Sys Mgt, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong In recent years, there is an increasing interest in the application of neural networks in financial analysis. A model combining neural networks and chaos theory are used in time series forecasting in the current study. Preliminary results in stock index prediction indicate that integrating the two concepts in time series forecasting is quite promising.

3) Generating Interesting Rules from Databases, Balasubramaniam Ramesh / Naval Postgraduate School, Code Sm/Ra, Dept of Sys Mgt, Monterey, CA 93943, USA Managers in many organizations that find themselves in possession of large and rapidly growing databases would benefit enormously by data mining tools that discover interesting patterns that are buried in the data. We have developed a data mining system that produces IF-THEN-ELSE rules from databases using the genetic algorithms. We investigate various measures of finding the most "interesting" rules.

4) Using a Mathematical Approach to Update the Domain Theory of a Learning Mechanism, Richard Dietric Wollmer / California State Univ, Info Sys Dept, Sch of Bus Admin, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA, Robert Chi / California State Univ, Sch of Bus Admin, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA, Melody Y. Kiang / Arizona State Univ, Dept of Decision And Info Sys, College of Business, Tempe, AZ 85287-4206, USA Explanation based learning systems have been successful when few training examples and a domain theory are available, while similarity based learning systems require many training examples. In an explanation based learning system, the domain theory may not be correct so that the learning results can be biased. In this paper, a mathematical approach is introduced to revise the rule base of a problem domain by introducing a set of testing examples to the rule base. In other words, the domain theory can maintain its consistency by testing a set of training examples.

1)
TRACK ORGANIZATION
CHAIR: ROBERT W. BLANNING Vanderbilt Univ, Owen Grad Sch of Mgmt, Nashville, TN 37203, USA

1) Modeling Organizational Behavior: Theoretical and Epistemological Foundations, Ann Seror / Dept of Management, Laval University, Ste-Foy, Que, Canada G1K 7P4 Three major theoretical and methodological orientations have guided the development of organizational models and simulations: the garbage can model from organization science, the physical symbol hypothesis from artificial intelligence, and dynamic systems simulation from operations research. The purpose of this paper is to integrate these three orientations for a more complete view of organizational reality.

2) The Diffusion of Intelligent Innovation, Claudia Loebbecke / Univ of Cologne, Wilh, Backhaus, Str 23, Koein, 50931, Germany The paper presents a system dynamics model regarding the diffusion of digital cellular communication (GSM) as a recent example of an intelligent IT innovation. It discusses demand development forces, modelling principles, some simulation results concerning Germany until 2005, as well as the transferability of the model to other IT infrastructures.

3) Intelligent Economic and Social Systems, Robert W. Blanning / Vanderbilt Univ, Owen Grad Sch of Mgmt, Nashville, TN 37203, USA Human systems--groups, organizations, and societies--often display a degree of intelligence, learning, and adaptiveness exceeding that of their collective membership. This intelligence is embedded in the structure, recording memory, and culture of social systems. We examine the nature of societal intelligence and its relationship to human and machine intelligence.

1) A Bi-objective Network Location Model, Emanuel Melachrinoudis / Northeastern Univ, Boston, MA 02115, USA, Thomas P. Cullinane / Northeastern Univ, Boston, MA 02115, USA, Guangsheng Zhang / Northeastern Univ, Boston, MA 02115, USA A single facility is to be located on a network using two conflicting objectives, Minisum and Maximin, and weighted shortest path distances from the vertices. For this nonconvex bi-objective problem, properties of efficient soultions are established and an algorithm is developed that generates the efficient set.

2) Routing of Multi-Commodities Subject to Side Constraints, Alok Baveja / Rutgers Univ-Camden, Sch of Bus, Camden, NJ 08102, USA, Mamnoon Jamil / Rutgers Univ-Camden, Sch of Bus, Camden, NJ 08102, USA, Raj A. Sivakvmar / United Airlines, Executive Offices E X O E B, 1200 East Algonquin Rd, Elkgrove Township, IL 60666, USA This paper introduces the multi-commodity minimum cost flow problem with side constraints and discusses efficient solution methodologies. The constraints restrict the flow of individual commodities to a limited subset of all possible sequences of arcs in the network.

3) Locating a Travelling Server Queueing Facility on a Network, Mamnoon Jamil / Rutgers Univ-Camden, Sch of Bus, Camden, NJ 08102, USA This paper considers the problem of locating the home base of a travelling server on a network. The objective we consider is to minimize the average response time to an accepted call. The queueing system is analyzed via a busy period analysis, which uses a decoupling scheme to simplify the task of optimizing the home base location.

1) Impact of Globalization on Operations Strategy: Comparison Between Service and Manufacturing Companies in the Asia-Pacific Region, Norma Harrison / Univ of Tech Sydney, Grad Sch of Business, P O Box 123, New South Wales, 2007, Australia, Robert Cain / B D W Aviation Services, P O Box N 777, Grosvenor Place NSW, 2000, Australia Globalization is increasingly an attribute of leading companies and less of a condition associated with country of origin. In order to achieve globalization, companies are actively pursuing intra-firm integration policies. As part of the trend to globalization, firms are also looking to form alliances (sometimes cemented with cross shareholding or joint ventures) with other companies. For service firms, the challenge is to match their service promises - made to a global market - with their ability to deliver these promises consistently. This paper examines the changing patterns of globalization in the Asia-Pacific, and the effect on operations and information flows in service organizations as compared to manufacturing organizations.

2) Procurement Strategies and Outsourcing of Information Systems - A Model and Finnish Experiences, Timo Saarinen / Helsinki Sch of Econ, Runeberginkatu 14-16, Sf-00100 Helsinki, Finland, Ari Vepsalainen / Helsinki Sch of Econ, Runeberginkatu 14-16, Helsinki Sf-00100, Finland This paper presents a model of efficient procurement strategies for information systems based on the type of service and distribution channel needed. The patterns of in-house production, market exploitation and outsourcing are described and deviations from model predictions are analyzed based on surveys of Finnish companies.

3) Software Contracting Failure: A "Case" Analysis, Soon Ang / Nanyang Tech Univ, Sch of Accountancy & Bus, Nanyang Av, Singapore, 2263, Singapore, See Kiat Toh / Nanyang Tech. Univ., Nanyang Business School, Singapore 2263, Singapore Traditional scholarly and managerial research emphasizes failure avoidance. Likewise, in outsourcing research, the focus has been on contingencies whereby outsourcing leads to superior firm performance. This paper concerns the benefits of understanding failures in outsourcing, and examines an actual legal case on software contracting and draws lessons from legal disputes.

4) Characterizing Japanese Outsourcing, Sho Hanaoka / Kanto-Gakuin Univ, 4834 Mutsuura-Cho, Yokohama-Shi, Kanagawa-Ken, 236, Japan, Tatsumi Shimada / Tokyo Metro Inst of Tech, 6-6 Asahigaoka, Hino-Shi, 191, Tokyo, Michio Yotsuya / Ibm Japan Service Business Co., 1-14, Nissin-Cho, Kawasaki-Ku, Kawasaki-Shi, Kangawa-Ken, 210, Japan In Japan from early 1994, many companies have been showing an active interest in the IS outsourcing in order to eliminate IS cost to decrease troublesome IS operations, to achieve best manpower allocation, etc. However, there is a trend peculiar to Japan due to, for example the lifetime employment that is the delicate balance between insourcing and outsourcing.

1) Course Scheduling Using M R P, Sushil K Gupta / Florida Int'L Univ, P C 543 Univ Park Campus, Miami, FL 33199, USA This paper discusses the application of Material Requirement planning for course scheduling and enrollment planning in Higher Education. Specific data from a university is used to show the application of this concept. Different degrees, awarded by the university, are considered as end products with courses representing the component parts.

2) A Heuristic for Scheduling Train Operators of a Mass Transit System, Wing Cheong Ng / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong This paper studies the problem of scheduling crews of a mass transit system to meet the daily service requirement. Because of the complexity of the problem, it is difficult to solve it optimally. Therefore, the problem is decomposed into several more manageable sub-problems. A heuristic is then developed to solve the problem by constructing a schedule based on the solutions of the sub-problems.

3) Aircraft Flights and Maintenance Scheduling, Chew Lih-Wee / Information Tecnology Inst, 71 Science Park Dr, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Andrew Lim / Information Technology Inst, 71 Science Park Dr, Singapore 0511, Singapore In this paper, we present a system that performs flights and maintenance scheduling. More specifically, the system schedules flights to actual planes with maintenance considerations, generates 4-month and 10-year maintenance plans, and performs dynamic re-scheduling of flights.

4) Economic Designs of Environmentally Stress Screening, Y V Hui / City Univ of Hong Kong, Dept of Appl Stat & O R, 83 Tat Chee Av, Hong Kong, W.L. Lu / City Univ of Hong Kong, Dept of Appl Stat & O R, 83 Tat Chee Av, Hong Kong Environmentally stress screening before shipment will reject poor quality products and avoid high initial mortality rate. It is justified when the expected proportion defective is high in infant stage that early removal of defects will improve the reliability in service. This paper studies economic designs of complete inspection plans where every finished product is subject to an accelerated test. The total of testing, quality and reliability costs is minimized to obtain the optimal testing parameters.

5) Optimal Threshold Error for Distributed Interactive Simulations (DIS), Chon-Huat Goh / Univ of Kentucky, 425H College of Busi & Econ, Lexington, KY 40506-0034, USA, James Otto / Univ of Kentucky, 425H College of Busi & Econ, Lexington, KY 40506-0034, USA In DIS, distributed simulators such as tanks and aircrafts interactively engage in simulated combat over computer networks. To limit the number of network messages, each simulator message must meet an error threshold before transmission. This paper determines the threshold error level that maximizes the number of simulators in the network.

1) Understanding and Using Multivariate Control Charts, M Raghavachari / Rensselaer Polytech Inst, DSES Dept, Troy, NY 12180, USA, James A. Alloway / Syracuse Univ, Dept of Mech/Aero/Mfg Eng, Syracuse, NY 13244-1240, USA Multivariate control charts are appropriate statistical tools to monitor a process when the overall quality of a product or service depends on several interdependent quality characteristics considered simultaneously. This tutorial illustrates the simplest multivariate control chart, that for 2 quality characteristics. The general multivariate case is presented for Shewhart and other types of charts. Identification of variables causing an 'out of control' situation is discussed. Software issues in constructing multivariate control charts are demonstrated. This tutorial is intended for quality professionals with a basic understanding of Shewhart control charts and the fundamental statistical principles upon which they are based. Knowledge of matrix is not required.

1) Panel: Business Reengineering - What's New?, Pramod Jain / Andersen Consulting, 100 S Wacker, Chicago, IL 60606, USA, Soumitra Dutta / INSEAD, Blvd de Constance, Fountainebleau Cedex, France 77305, Ken Hodo / Andersen Consulting, Tokyo, Japan, Chan-Meng Khoong / Info Tech Inst, 71 Science Park Dr, Ncb Building, Singapore, 0511, Rep of Singapore, Alex Zaks / Andersen Consulting, 100 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, USA The panel will descuss the following provocative issues regarding business reengineering: What are the redeeming values of business reengineering? What is the role of management science - is BPR accomplished by clever insight, business acumen, out-of-the-box thinking, or MS techniques? What cultural and national nuances are relevant to successful BR? What are the implementation hurdles; why is the reported failure rate of BR so high?

Tuesday 14:00-15:15

1) A Model for Enterprise Integration, Rainer Sommer / George Mason Univ, Fairfax CALS Ctr, 10640 Page Av, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA, Malcolm Sharp / George Mason Univ, Fairfax CALS Ctr, 10640 Page Av, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA This paper provides a high level model of the Enterprise Integration process. The articulated stages are planning, process mapping, core process identification, economic analysis, cost/performance measurement systems, and behavioral and technological enablers.

2) Implementation Issues in Enterprise Integration, Edgar Sibley / George Mason Univ, Fairfax CALS Ctr, 10640 Page Av, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA This paper examines both behavioral and technological enablers and barriers to achieving Enterprise Integration. The particular focus is on the public sector enterprise, relying on lessons learned from our private sector interviews. Critical private sector success factors are identified, and linkages are established to the public sector when appropriate.

3) Economic Issues in Enterprise Integration, Thomas Gulledge / George Mason Univ, Fairfax CALS Ctr, 10640 Page Av, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA This paper surveys public and private sector approaches to process modeling, activity-based costing, and business case development. Particular attention is given to the US Dept. of Defense's approach to modeling the costs, benefits, and risks associated with process changes and information technology investments.

1) Real Options in the Petroleum Industry, Gordon Sick / Univ of Calgary, Faculty of Management, Calgary Alb, Canada T2N 1N4, James Burns / Bow Valley Industries Ltd, Calgary, Alb, Canada Net present value (NPV) analysis fails to correctly assess the value and adoption decisions of the broad class of projects for which there is a (real) option to delay. We study various processes for oil and gas prices (lognormal prices, mean-reverting prices, mean-reverting convenience yields) and various types of options (adoption, abandonment, shut-in).

2) Functional Monotonicity and Prudence: An Application to Financial Management, Piera Mazzoleni / Catholic Univ, Milan, Italy The paper focuses on the multiperiod approach for banking management in order to control the trade-off between risk and prudence, by taking into account the problem of moral hazard. We notice that prudence is not simply reached by an increasing rate of change for the curvature; it is rather a controlled band and can be reached by k-monotonicity properties we have characterized in the framework of generalized concavity. This generalized monotonicity property is studied for the optimal time path for deposits and loans in a dynamic programming problem, under which we optimize a banking firm's management.

3) Trends in Efficiency of Emerging Markets: The Case of Istanbul and Warsaw Stock Exchanges, Gulnur Muradoglu / Bilkent Univ, Fac of Bus Admin, 06533 Bilkent, Ankara, Turkey, Ayse Yuce / Bilkent Univ-Turkey, School of Business, Bilkent, Ankara, 06533, Turkey The purpose of this paper is to describe the development process of emerging markets by comparing the efficiency of two markets through time. For that reason we chose two emerging stock exchanges with different levels of development-Turkey and Poland. Trends in efficiency analyzed in terms of distributional properties are correlated with those of structure and organization in these exchanges.

4) Stock Splits and Optimality of Share Prices, Roger D. Huang / Vanderbilt Univ, Owen Grad Sch of Mgmt, 401-21st Av South, Nashville, TN 37203, USA, H Martin Weingartner / Vanderbilt Univ, Owen Grad Sch of Mgmt, 401 - 21st Av South, Nashville, TN 37203, USA Frequently journals refer to an "optimal" share price range as the primary motivator for carrying out stock splits. Optimality in this context has neither been defined nor established. This paper provides empirically based criteria for selecting an optimal share price range as well as evidence for the benefits associated with this choice and the costs entailed when the optimal range is not chosen.

1) Publication Opportunities in International Journal of Operations and Quantitative Management, Omprakash K. Gupta / Indiana Univ Northwest, Div of Bus & Econ, 3400 Broadway, Gary, IN 46408, USA

1) Dynamic Allocation of Add-Drop Multiplexers in SDH Self Healing Rings, F.J.M. Salzborn / Univ of Adelaide, Dept of Applied Math, So Australia 5005, Australia, Alain Sutter / France Telecom-Cnet, Paa/Atr 38-40 Av Gal Leclerc, Issy Les Moulineaux, 92131, France This study makes a contribution to the solution of problems that arise in planning SDH transmission systems using self-healing rings. The focus of the study is the medium term planning (5 years) of an urban network. The optimization technique that has been used is simulated annealing.

2) Survivability of Meshed Network Architectures Based on ACCPM Approach, Abdel Lisser / France Telecom, Cnet Paa/Atr, Issy Les, Moulineaux, 92100, France, J P Vial / Univ of Geneve, 102 Bd Carl Vogt, Geneve, Ch-1211, Switzerland Survivability of networks is strategic for telecommunication companies. To secure the network against arcs and nodes failures, we apply a new approach based on Analytic Center Cutting Plane method to evaluate the spare capacity. Experimental results are given for a large real network with dozens of nodes and arcs.

3) Dynamic Location in Telecommunication Networks, Marie-Christine Costa / Cnam-Informatique Cedric, 292 Rue Saint-Martin, Paris, 75003, France, Alain Sutter / France Telecom-Cnet, Paa/Atr 38-40 Av Gal Leclerc, Issy Les Moulineaux, 92131, France We address some multi-period facility location problems applied to optimization of telecommunication networks. We take some capacity constraints and lines connection costs into account. The problem is modelized as a quadratic program with boolean variables and is solved with an approximate method based on Simulated Annealing. Lagrangean Relaxation gives a bound which guarantees the results. Experiments on random problems are given. We have applied our method for optimizing intelligent networks and the location of concentrators.

4) Service Control Point (SCP) Fault Tolerance, Tzyh-Jong Wang / Bellcore, 444 Hoes Ln, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA, Doris Nagel / Bellcore, 444 Hoes Ln, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA, Perry Passarotti / Bellcore, 444 Hoes Ln, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA A Service Control Point (SCP) provides real-time database services to queries from Services Switching Points (SSPs) in an Intelligent Network (IN). An SCP is required to be available 99.9998097% of the time, i.e., have less than 1 minute down time per year. We present and analyze the fault tolerance strategies and techniques designed into the Bellcore SCP that meet the availability requirement.

1) Structured Enterprise Modeling, Daniel R. Dolk / Naval Postgraduate School, Code Sm/Dk, 555 Dyer Rd, Room 229, Monterey, CA 93943-5103, USA The recent surge of interest in reengineering and business process (re)design requires a more careful examination of what constitutes enterprise modeling. The focus of re-engineering seems to be operaitonal rather than strategic. We look at structured modeling as one tool for incorporating quantitative decision models into the enterprise modeling landscape.

2) Structured Modeling in the TEFA Model Management System, Hua Hua / New Jersey Inst of Tech, Computer And Info Sci Dept, Newark, NJ 07102, USA, Steven Kimbrough / Univ of Penn, The Wharton School, 3620 Locust Walk,Ste 1300, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6366, USA We describe extensions we have made to the TEFA model management system in order to include Structured Modeling representations of models. Important issues addressed include: enhanced validity checking, reporting, and operations on models. We compare and contrast TEFA's embedded language approach with Structured Modeling.

3) Construction of an Analogical Modeling Language, Ting Peng Liang / Nat'l Sun Yat Sen Univ, Dept of Infor Management, Kaohsimg, Taiwan, Rep of China Analogical reasoning is a useful process to support model building. This presentation is focused on the concepts of analogical modeling and its integration into a modeling language. Issues related to the construction of analogical modeling languages will be discussed.

1) A New Approach to the MRP Capacitated Problem, Belarmino Adenso-Diaz / Univ de Leon, Facul DE Ciencias Econ, Campus De Vegazana, Leon, 24071, Spain, Manuel Laguna / Univ of Colorado, Sch of Bus, C B 419, Boulder, CO 80309, USA A weak link in material requirements planning (MRP) systems technique is the failure to consider the available capacity at the time the lot sizes for individual items are calculated. Ignoring the available capacity may result in infeasible production plans. Creating feasible production plans from MRP output by means of a lot-sizing heuristic based on tabu search is reported.

2) Issues in the Design of Case-Based Reasoning Environments, Laura Davis / Navy Research Laboratory, Navy Center For Artificial Int, Washington, DC 20375-5337, USA, Patrick Harrison / Naval Research Laboratory, Navy Center For Artificial Int, Washington, DC 20375-5337, USA This paper discusses current research in Case-Based Reasoning (CBR) being conducted at the Navy Center for Artificial Intelligence. CBR means using old situations (cases) to solve new problems. In the new situation, we remember similar situations from the past. These remembered cases are adapted to solve the new problem. We first summarize our research in case representation, indexing, retrieval, case adaption and dynamic memory management and then discuss issues for both parallel and sequential CBR implementation.

3) Modeling Support for Scheduling Problems, Ramayya Krishman / Carnegie Mellon Univ, Heinz Sch, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, Rudolf Muller / Humboldt Univ Zu Berlin, Inst Fur Wirtschaftsinformatik, Spandauer Str 1, D-10178 Berlin, Germany, Peter Piela / Aspen Tech, Boston, MA 0, USA In this paper, we discuss language constructs to provide modeling support for combinatorial optimization problems such as project scheduling. Existing modeling languages are optimized for representing mathematical programming models that are easily and compactly rendered in algebraic notation. Combinatorial optimization problems are rarely specified and solved using these languages. We describe our ongoing work on defining languages for these problems.

4) A Multiheuristic Approach for Constrained Project Scheduling, Dan Zhu / Carnegie Mellon Univ, The Heinz School, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, Rema Padman / Carnegie Mellon Univ, Heinz School, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA In this paper, we propose and test a multi-heuristic approach for the resource constrained project scheduling problem. This approach utilizes information from a number of simple heuristics combined within the framework of A-team and tabu search to iteratively repair and improve a schedule. We will report results from testing this approach on large project networks.

1) Senior Management Involvement in I T: A New Zealand Perspective, Felix Tan / Univ of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand The nature and extent of senior management involvement in I T in New Zealand was recently examined. This paper presents the findings of the study and reports on the views of senior I T managers of 88 companies on the notion that senior management involvement is vital to successful I T-strategy linkages.

2) The Impact of Leadership on Computer Programmers, Ernest Jordam / Not Available.

1) Enabling New Organizational Form: Impacts of Group-based Technology at Texaco, Gerry De Sanctis / Duke Univ, Fuqua Sch of Bus, Box 90120, Durham, NC 27708-0120, USA In its move toward a flexible, team-based organization, Texaco has provided a range of group-based technologies to its major corporate divisions. The technologies have included electronic mail, electronic calendaring, electronic bulletin boards, discussion databases, and electronic meeting systems. A multi-year study of four divisions of Texaco examines the relative impact of these technolgies on organization design and function.

2) Focus Theory and Its Implications for Improving Organizational Productivity Through Group Support Technology, Bob Briggs / Univ of Arizona, Dept of Mgt Info Sys, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA, Jay Nunamaker / Univ of Arizona, Dept of Mgt Info Sys, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA Organizational redesign seeks to improve productivity, sometimes by introducing new group support technologies. For these efforts to be reliably successful, the mechanisms of productivity must be understood. Focus Theory is a model of group productivity that provides a unifying foundation for other theories and constructs in the GSS literature. It can guide the design and development of technical interventions. It provides a logical structure for testing whether the interventions have the predicted effects.

3) Using Multicriteria Decision Making Facilities of a GDSS to Support Strategic Planning in an Org: A Field Study Involving Local Govt, Douglas J. Atkinson / Curtin Univ of Tech, Curtin Bus Sch Info Sys, G P O Box U 1987, Perth, 6001, W Australia, Peter H. Marshall / Curtin Univ of Tech, Curtin Bus Sch Info Sys, G P O Box U 1987, Perth, 6001, W Australia A field study was carried out using a level 2 GDSS technology. A multicriteria decision making tool was applied by a professional facilitation team to a group of participants from local government undertaking a strategic planning task. The process of the strategic planning task involved 5 GDSS sessions and the interactions of the participants between sessions. Preliminary findings are presented with regard to participant perceptions of the experience.

4) Influence of Coordinating Technology (GDSS) on the Group Polarization Phenomenon for Team Decision Making, Maha El-Shinnaway / Texas A & M Univ, Coll of Bus Adm & Grad Sch Bus, Dept of Bus Analysis & Res, College Station, TX 77843-4217, USA, Ajay Vinze / Texas A & M Univ, Dept of Bus Analysis & Res, Coll of Bus Admin & Grad Sch, College Station, TX 77843-4217, USA In this field-based study, we examine groupware in the context of team-based executive decision making. In particular, we center our attention on the phenomenon of group-induced attitude polarization. A theoretical model is used to examine why group polarization occurs and the mechanisms that underlie this phenomenon.

1) Rate Stability in Networks of Queues, Shaler Stidham / Univ of North Carolina, Dept Operations Research, C B #3180, 210 Smith Bldg, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-3180, USA We consider open and closed networks of queues with arrivals and departures satisfying pathwise conditions, including the existence of long-run average rates. Under different regularity conditions on service disciplines and routing, we show that the workload process is rate stable, i.e., its growth is o(t) as t approaches infinity.

2) Sample Path Analysis for Two-Stage Tandem Queues and Its Applications, Takeshi Kawashima / Nat'l Defense Academy, Dept of Mathematics, Hashinimiza 1-10-20, Yokosuka, Kamagawa, 239, Japan, Ichiro Sasaki / Nat'l Defense Academy, Dept of Mathematics, Hashinimiza 1-10-20, Yokosuka, Kamagawa, 239, Japan Consider a tandem queueing system consisting of two single-sever nodes with a finite waiting room. We will show that, if the two service times are constant and i.i.d random variables, the system where the first node gives constant and the second gives i.i.d service times is better than the system with the reversed order, under some arrival processes.

3) Two Layer Queueing Networks, Issei Kino / C & C Research Lab Nec, Kawasaki,Kanagawa, 216, Japan Queueing networks with two layers are proposed to provide well structured analytic models for performance evaluation of practical applications. Proof of the product from joint distribution for equilibrium state of the two layer network with a state dependent arrival function, a state dependent service function and general form of service time distributions is derived.

4) On the Characterization of Departure Rules for Discrete-Time Queueing Networks with Batch Movements and Its Applications, Masakiyo Miyazawa / Science Univ of Tokyo, Dept of Information Sciences, Noda-City, Chiba, 278, Japan For a discrete-time queueing network with batch arrivals and batch departures, we characterize the departure rule in terms of a time-reversed process. This reveals why the specific rule is common in the literature. The characterization is also useful to consider traffic flows of the network.

1) Dynamic Lot-Sizing with Price Changes, Andre Gascon / Univ Laval, Fac Science Admin, Sainte-Foy,Quebec, G1K 7P4, Canada, Alain Martel / Univ Laval, Fac Sciences Admin, Quebec, Ste-Foy P Q, G1K 7P4, Canada This talk considers the dynamic lot-sizing problem with price changes. A dynamic programming approach is developed to solve the problem when solutions are restricted to sequential extreme flows, and results from location theory are used to provide an optimal algorithm which solves the integer linear programming formulation of the general case.

2) Optimal Ordering Criteria Under Various Marketing Policies for Inventory Systems with Short Term Extended Payment Privilege, Nita H. Shah / Gujarat Univ, Dept of Math, Navarangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India, Y.K. Shah / Gujarat Univ, Dept of Stat, Navarangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 380009, India, Omprakash K. Gupta / Indiana Univ Northwest, Div of Bus & Econ, 3400 Broadway, Gary, IN 46408, USA In the conventional EOQ model, we try to develop an optimum policy so as to minimize total cost or maximize profit (revenue) of the system. In this model, the demand is assumed to be independent of the selling price. In practice, the demand distribution generally depends on selling price. An attempt is made to develop decision rules when customers are offered a one time or short term opportunity to delay payments for the order quantity, in which inventories are evaluated as investment that would generate profit for the system under consideration.

3) The Movie Cassette Rental Problem, G. Srinivasan / Univ of New Brunswick, Fac of Admin, P.O. Box 4400, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada, S.K. Goyal / Concordia Univ, 1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd., W., Montreal, PQ H3G 1Mb, Canada, Francisco J. Arcelus / Univ of New Brunswick, Faculty of Administration, P.O. Box 4400, Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3, Canada This paper considers a video store confronted with deciding upon an ordering policy for the cassettes of a movie newly released into the video cassette rental market. A dynamic programming formulation of the problem is presented, as well as a numerical example to illustrate the main features of the model.

4) Estimating the Demand Distribution of a Single-Period Item, Amy Hing-Ling Lau / Oklahoma State Univ, College of Bus, Stillwater, OK 74074, USA, Hon Shiang Lau / Oklahoma State Univ, College of Bus, Stillwater, OK 74074, USA The service level of a single-period newsboy-type product is often set at such a low level that stockouts occur frequently and a large right-hand aide of the emperical demand distribution is never observed. We report a practical approach for estimating such a periodic-demand distribution.

1) Integration of Paradigms for Manufacturing Software, Vladimir Bacvanski / Aachen Univ of Tech, L S Info, Ahornstr 55, D-52074 Aachen, Germany All aspects of complex technical applications cannot be adequately represented in a single paradigm. The integration of multiple paradigms is needed to increase the expressive power of representations. We examine merging of multiple paradigms and their integration with conventional applications in flexible manufacturing systems context.

2) Tool Allocation and Scheduling for an Automated Two-Machine FMS, Hiroshi Kise / Kyoto Inst of Tech, Dept of Mech Eng, Matsugasaki, Sakyoku, Kyoto, 606, Japan, Yoshiyuki Karuno / Kyoto Inst of Tech, Dept of Mech Eng, Matsugasaki, Sakyoku, Kyoto, 606, Japan We discuss tool allocation and scheduling problems of maximizing the efficiency of an automated two-machine job shop or a kind of FMC that has two machining centers and a robot. We show some properties for the optimality, and propose an enumerative approach that can solve large scale problem instances.

3) Object-Oriented Flexible Manufacturing Systems, Vladan Devedzic / Mihailo Pupin Inst, Volgina 15, Belgrade, 11000, Yugoslavia Application of general object-oriented software technology to FMS is discussed. The paper shows how key ideas and principles of FMS can be modeled in an object-oriented way and what the benefits are of doing so. A particular object-oriented FMS is used as an example.

4) CAD Based Planning and Execution of Visual Inspection, Jharna Majumdar / Centre For A I And Robotics, Raj Bhavan Circle, Bangalore 560 001, India, K. Seetharaman / Centre For A I & Robotics, Raj Bhavan Circle, Bangalore 560 001, India, Seethalakshmy / Centre For A I & Robotics, Raj Bhavan Circle, Bangalore 560 001, India This paper proposes a scheme for automatic inspection of machine parts. An inspection plan generator determines the optimum set of measurable inspection parameters for each primitive feature of the part from its CAD model. Manufacturing accuracy is determined by comparing model data to the measurements executed by a visual inspection cell.

1) Minimizing the Variance of the Completion Times of N Jobs on One Machine, Endre Boros / Rutgers University, RUTCOR, P O Box 5062, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA, T. Badics / Rutgers University, RUTCOR, P O Box 5062, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA We present a quadratric 0-1 minimization reformulation of the completion time variance minimization problem. We show that the problem is NP-complete in general and we provide a polynomial time approximation algorithm for any given relative error.

2) Improving the Material Handling System to Stay on Schedule, Diane Riopel / Ecole Polytechnique, C.P. 6079, Succ. Centre-Ville, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 3A7, Canada, Daniel Noyes / Ecol Nat'l Ingen de Tarbes, Av D'Azereix, B.P. 1629, Tarbes, Cedex, 65016, France, Bernard Grabot / Ecole Nat'l Inden de Tarbes, Av D'Azereix, B.P. 1629, Tarbes, Cedex, 65016, France The new material handling systems with their high level of complexity are subject to failures. We propose to add to the classical modes of operation (automatic, semi-automatic and manual) an assisted-manual mode. This mode gives the opportunity to continue benefiting from optimization techniques when failures occur.

3) Solving the Two-Resouce Allocation Problem On Series-Parallel (S-P) Graphs, R. Armstrong / Rutgers Univ, 92 New St, Grad Sch of Mgt, Newark, NJ 07102, USA, Shanhong Gu / Rutgers Univ, Grad Sch of Mgt, Newark, NJ 07102, USA, Lei Lei / Rutgers Univ, Grad Sch of Mgmt, Newark, NJ 07102, USA We propose an efficient algorithm for solving the two-resource allocation problem defined on s-p graphs. The optimal solution is derived from the dual problem and the search process ends up with either of the three exclusive cases. Closed-form solutions exist for the first two cases, and a bisectional search is used for the third case.

4) Optimal Layout Design for a Two-Transporter Electroplating Line, Zhaobo Wang / Fairleigh Dickinson Univ, 1000 River Rd, Teaneck, NJ 07666, USA, Lei Lei / Rutgers Univ, Grad Sch of Mgmt, Newark, NJ 07102, USA, Shanhong Gu / Rutgers Univ, Grad Sch of Mgt, Newark, NJ 07102, USA We analyze the effect to facility layout on the efficiency of an automated continuous chemical process. We prove the NP-completeness of the associated scheduling problems and propose a set of optimal and local optimization algorithms. Computational results with real data are presented.

5) Decision Support Systems in Logistics Planning: Some Examples, Omer Bakkalbasi / Philips Labs, 345 Scarborough Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510, USA, Kumar Bhaskaran / Philips Labs, 345 Scarborough Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510, USA, Ying Huang / Philips Labs, 345 Scarborough Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510, USA, Raymond Krasinski / Philips Labs, 345 Scarborough Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510, USA, Ying Tat Leung / Philips Labs, 345 Scarborough Rd, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510, USA We present examples of decision support systems developed for logistics management in large-scale manufacturing of consumer goods. We discuss what the systems do, how they can be used in strategic and tactical planning of production, sales, and inventory, and how they relate to an "ideal" logistics planning decision support system.

6) Using Prior Knowledge to Identify Good Sequencing Rules for Real Time Control of Production Cells, Arne Thesen / Univ of Wisconsin-Madison, Dept of Ind Eng, Madison, WI 53706, USA Simple decision rules are often used in real time to determine processing sequences in manufacturing cells. We show how the process of selecting rules for this purpose can be simplified by exploiting the often considerable information and insight that is available about the product and production processes in question. Examples comparing the performance of cells with random work loads systems using intelligently selected decisions rules with same cells using know optimal rules are given.

1) An Anatomy of a New Product Development Process Support System, Morris Cohen / Univ Pennsylvania, Wharton School, O P I M, Philadelphia, PA 19174, USA, Josh Eliashberg / Univ of Penn, Mktg Department, Wharton School, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA, Teck-Hua Ho / U C L A, 405 Hilgard Av, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA We present a software support system designed to enhance the efficiency of the new product development process of a major food processor. The system embodies historical knowledge about the productivities and return of the firm's new product development process and provides sales forecasts at various steps during the development process.

2) Sequencing Design Projects, Sriram Dasu / U C L A, Anderson Grad School of Mgt, 405 Hilgard Av, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA We analyze the engineering resource allocation problem faced by a firm in the electronics industry. The firm had to upgrade several product lines, due to limitations in the financial resources, and choices had to be made regarding the scope and timing of options.

3) Managing Product Variety: Modeling Variety in Automative Braking Systems Design, Kamalini Ramdas / Univ of Texas - Austin, Dept of Mgt, C B A 4.202, Austin, TX 78712-1174, USA, Karl T. Ulrich / Univ of Penn, The Wharton School, 1300 Sh Dh,3620 Locust, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA, Marshall Fisher / Univ of Penn, Wharton School, 1300 Sh Dh, 3620 Locust Walk, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA Given a company product line, deciding how much variety is needed for a component system involves trading off costs that increase with variety (design and tooling costs) against costs that decrease with variety (costs attributable to an imperfect match between component and product). We model these tradeoffs for braking system components.

1) International Business Versus International Marketing?, Peter J. Buckley / Univ of Bradford, Mgmt Centre, Emm Ln, Bradford, West Yorks, Bd9 4Jl, The paper examines the similarities and differences between the subject areas of "international business" and "international marketing". It covers research methods, subject coverage, philosophical basis and empirics. It suggests that the areas have much to offer each other and suggests some re-structuring which should lead to ways forward.

2) The Marketing of Russian/East European Products in the West, Richard Ettenson / Bond Univ, Sch of Bus, Gold Coast 4229, Australia Western consumers evaluate the countries of Russia/Eastern Europe differently, as well as the products produced by each country. East European nation perceptions are related to Western consumers' product attitudes - both willingness to buy and evaluations of overall quality. Implications for Russian/East European countries exporting to the West are discussed.

3) A Conceptual Framework for Cross-National Marketing Research, Hartmut Holzmuller / Wirtschafts Univ Wien, Augasse 2-6, 1090 Vienna, Austria The objective of the paper is to furnish a theoretical foundation for cross-national marketing research. The solution to methodological problems is suggested by conceptualizing two models in a single research design. One model on a country level and one, the substance model, investigates marketing-related research issues on a intracountry level.

4) Export Information Use: Issues, Problems and Research Challenges, Adamantios Diamantopoulos / Univ of Wales-Swansea, European Busi Mgt School, Singleton Park, Swansea, Wales, Sa2 8Pp, United Kingdom Export performance is often said to be impeded as a result of lack of and/or ineffective use of information. An interdisciplinary review of the literature on knowledge utilization is presented, highlighting conceptual approaches, measurement issues and key findings. An agenda for future research is also drawn.

1) Efficiency Gains from Regionalization, Patricia E. Byrnes / Ohio State Univ, Sch of Public Pol & Mgt, 1775 College Rd, Columbus, OH 43210, USA, James Storbeck / The Magellan Group, 3001 North Lammar Blvd, Ste 107, Austin, TX 78705, USA This research takes advantage of Farrell-type measures of economies of scope in order to test the appropriateness of various regionalizations of spatial production phenomena. Computational experiences with efficiency gain models are reported for two regional contexts: Chinese Cities and regional production within the state of Ohio.

2) Elasticity of Scale in DEA Models, Finn R Forsund / Univ of Oslo, Saf Ctr For Applied Research, Gaustadallen 21.0371, Oslo 3, Norway, Lennart Hjalmarsson / Univ of Gothenburg, Dept of Econ, Viktoriagatan 30, Goteborg 5-411 25, Sweden When using DEA to give policy advice the question of whether the units are of optimal scale often arises. Within a piecewise linear model a clear cut answer may be difficult to give because optimal scale depends both on output and input composition. The starting point is classical production theory (Frisch 1965). Scale elasticity concept is developed. The connection between scale elasticity and scale efficiency is shown. Several data sets are investigated for scale properties and results for scale elasticity is given.

3) An Analysis of Productivity Changes in US Banking, 1977-1988, Gary D. Ferrier / Univ of Arkansas, Dept of Economics, 402 Bus Admin Bldg, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA, Paul W. Bauer / Fed Reserve Bank of Cleveland, P.O. Box 6387, Cleveland, OH 44101, USA, Allen N. Berger / Federal Reserve Board, Mail Stop 180, 20th & C Sts.NW, Washington, DC 20551, USA, David B. Humphrey / Florida State Univ, Dept of Finance, 313 Oaks Will Ct, Tallahassee, FL 32312, USA This paper uses a nonparametric-nonstochastic frontier approach to decompose the Malmquist index of productivity change into its true technological change, pure efficiency change and scale efficiency change components for the US banking industry over the period 1977-1988. This period witnessed many changes in the competitive environment in the US banking industry; this analysis will help to determine the effects of these changes on bank performance.

1) Steiner Trees in Protean Networks, Santosh Kumar / Royal Melbourne Inst of Tech, Dept of Mathematics, G P O Box 2476 B, Melbourne, Vic, 2001, Australia, Harjeet Arora / Dept of Mathematics, 124 LA Trobe St, Melbourne, Australia The Problem of finding Steiner Trees in a Protean network is considered. A Protean network is assumed to be an expanded network which is obtained by adding a few notes and edges under some conditions.

2) Protean Systems in Queueing and Manufacturing, Santosh Kumar / Royal Melbourne Inst of Tech, Dept of Mathematics, G P O Box 2476 B, Melbourne, Vic, 2001, Australia, S. Subba Rao / Univ of Toledo, Dept of Info Sys & Op Mgt, Toledo, OH 43606, USA Many traditional and advanced manufacturing systems can be modelled as queueing systems. The relationships between the two are well established. Business conditions and environment introduce changes into these systems continuously. In this paper the authors characterize these systems as protean systems and study their behavior through protean systems and analysis.

3) "Seamless" Production Scheduling in the Paper Industry, R E Johnston / Monash Univ, Australian Pulp & Paper Inst, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia When unexpected events necessitate re-scheduling, existing production scheduling algorithms can perform badly as in most cases they disregard the "old" schedule. This paper presents the problem in the context of traditional cutting stock algorithms used in the paper industry. Some empirical approaches which give "reasonable" solutions are presented.

1) Convergence of Affine Scaling Method, Romesh Saigal / Univ of Michigan, Dept of IOE, Ann Arbor, MI 48103, USA We will cover recent developments in convergence theory of primal affine scaling method, introduced by Dikin in 1967. Under non-degeneracy, this method converges for any step size. We will explore recent results when the problems may be degenerate. Super-linear convergence property will also be discussed.

2) Parallel Solution of Robust Optimization Using Interior Point Methods, Stavros A. Zenios / Univ of Penn, Wharton Sch - Oper & Info Mgt, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA, D. Yang / Univ of Pennsylvania, The Wharton Sch, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA

3) A Predictor-Corrector Interior Point Algorithm that Uses Wide Neighbourhood, Yinyu Ye / Univ of Iowa, S384 P B A B, Iowa City, IA 52241, USA

4) On the Cycling Example for the Affine Scaling Algorithm, Takashi Tsuchiya / Inst of Statistical Math, 4-6-7 Minami Azabu, Minato-Ku, Tokyo, 106, Japan Mascarenhas gave instances of LP where the long-step affine scaling algorithm with the step-size lambda = 0.999 can fail to converge to an optimal solution. We give a geometrical explanation for why cycling occurs in his examples and show that the algorithm can lose global convergence even with lambda = 0.92.

1) Coping with Variations in a JIT Environment, Surendra Mohan Gupta / Northeastern Univ, Dept of I E & Info Sys, Boston, MA 02115, USA This paper introduces a systematic methodology to dynamically manipulate the number of Kanbans in a JIT system in order to compensate for the variations in processing times and anticipated surge in demand. It is shown that this methodology reduces the effect of such variations when applied to a JIT system.

2) Manufacturing Technology Use and Performance in U.S. Manfacturing Firms, Paul Swamidass / Auburn Univ, Thomas Walter Ctr For Tech Mgt, Tiger Dr Room 104, Auburn, AL 38849-5358, USA This study's focus is on the use of 15 different hard (CAD,CAM, CNC, etc.) and soft (JIT, TQM, cells, etc.) manufacturing technologies in five US industries (SIC 34-38) and associated benefits. the results from 1,042 manufacturing plants indicate 13 different benefits. Strategic gains are reported moe often than profitability gains.

3) Increasing Semiconductor Manufacturing's Value to a Firm, Donald Gerwin / Carleton Univ, School of Business, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1S 5B6 In North America, large end-product firms and semiconductor merchants are calling into question the internal fabrication of chips. this paper discusses what can be done to increase the strategic value of an internal chip facility. Based on a literature search and interviews in a leading North American telecommunications firm the paper indentifies six ways of increasing an internal fab's value. Initiating these activities would allow an internal fab to make contributions in stages of the chip life cycle where it normally has little impact.

1) Computer-Aided Concurrent Design System - An Integrated Approach, Rajit Gadh / Univ of Wisconsin, 1513 Univ Av, Room 347, Madison, WI 53706, USA The current research provides a framework for creating designs in a computer environment, and subsequently evaluating the designs for manufacturability. The domain to which this approach is applied is near net-shape manufacturing. Designs may be generated quickly and then critiqued for downstream manufacturability via shape abstractions, thereby reducing design iterations.

2) Analysis of Product Life Cycle Management Under Uncertainty, John Liu / Univ of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, School of Business, Milwaukee, WI 53201, USA We study the behavior of a stochastic product life cycle due to uncertainty in business process engineering, technological innovation, and learning. An optimal stopping model is developed to examine the interactions between BPE (such as production, marketing, and quality) decisions and the PLC. Initial results are reported.

3) An Analytic Approach to Concurrent Engineering Implementation, Ali Yassube / Wayne State Univ, Dept of Ind & Mfg Eng, Detroit, MI 48202, USA, Donald Falkenburg / Wayne State Univ, Dept of Ind & Mfg Eng, Detroit, MI 48202, USA, Kenneth Chelst / Wayne State Univ, Dept of Ind & Mfg Eng, Detroit, MI 48202, USA We quantify key issues with regard to Concurrent Engineering through the use of analytical models that enable us to better understand, structure, and manage the design process. The models are implemented in a decision analysis framework that captures the randomness of the desgin process. We use the design of an engine block as an illustration.

4) Decision and Risk Analysis in Engineering Management, Kenneth Chelst / Wayne State Univ, Dept of Ind & Mfg Eng, Detroit, MI 48202, USA We discuss a variety of common decisions that arise in the broad area of engineering managment for which decision and risk analysis and mutli-attributed utility theory are efficient appropriate tools. We also discuss the integration of these concepts into an engineering management master's program designed for Ford Motor Company.

1) Enterprise Wide DSS Based on Intelligent Documents, Su Lin Ba / Univ of Texas At Austin, Dept of Mgt Sci & Info Sys, Austin, TX 78712, USA, Andrew Whinston / Univ Texas Austin, Dept of Mgt Sci & Info Sys, C B A 5.202, Austin, TX 78712 1175, USA Enterprise wide computing based on representing, organizing and integrating documents is a rapidly emerging technology. In this paper we develop an extension to that model which moves us from the managing multi-media documents to documents that also contain fragments of mathematical knowledge. We present a framework for organizing a document knowledge base and for retrieving and executing the appropriate collection of documents to solve the enterprise problems.

2) Integrating Arbitrage Pricing Theory and Aritificial Neural Networks for Portfolio Management, Hsing Yuan Hong / Nat'l Sun Yat-Sen Univ, Inst of Info Mgt, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R O C, Ting Peng Liang / Nat'l Sun Yat Sen Univ, Dept of Infor Management, Kaohsimg, Taiwan, Rep of China, Victor Liu / Nat'l Sun Yat-Sen Univ, Inst of Info Mgt, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R O C The paper presents an integrated approach that combines arbitrage pricing theory and artificial neural networks to support portfolio management. Empirical results indicate that the integrated approach outperforms the traditional approach.

3) An Expert System Approach: Querying Multiple Databases, Waiman Cheung / Chinese Univ of Hong Kong, Dept of Oper & Sys Mgt, Shatin, N. T., Hong Kong A rule-based expert system is proposed to alleviate the fundamental challenge, sharing of information for enterprise users across organizational boundaries, in enterprise information management. This system facilitates global query formulation and processing in a heterogeneous, distributed environment. Also, using the metadatabase as its knowledge base and a rule-based inference engine it can resolve heterogeneity among local systems.

4) Induction of Fuzzy Decision Trees, Yufei Yuan / Mc Master Univ, M. G. Degroote Sch of Bus, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Michael Shaw / Univ of Illinois, Dept of Business Admin, Champaign, IL 61820, USA Most decision tree induction methods used for extracting knowledge in classification problems do not deal with cognitive uncertainties such as vagueness and ambiguity associated with human thinking and perception. In this paper congnitive uncertainties involved in classification problems are explicitly represented, measured, and incorporated in the knowledge induction process. A fuzzy decision tree induction method, which is based on the reduction of classification ambiguity with fuzzy evidence, is developed.

2)
TRACK ORGANIZATION
CHAIR: ROBERT W. BLANNING Vanderbilt Univ, Owen Grad Sch of Mgmt, Nashville, TN 37203, USA

1) Resource Discovery and Data Management in a Heterogeneous Data Base Environment, Sudha Ram / Univ of Arizona, College of B P A, Dept of M I S, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA Resource discovery in an environment of large heterogeneous databases is a difficult task. Important issues to be considered in developing a resource discovery system are: identifying and resolving conflicts in heterogeneous schemas and developing efficient techniques for query processing. We present the use of integrity constraints to facilitate the process of intelligent dynamic schema integration. The use of integrity constraints helps in developing efficient techniques for semantic query processing. We also present some simulation results comparing our approach with traditional schema integration and query processing techniques.

2) Intelligent Support Systems for Organizational Learning, V. Venugopal / Nijenrode Univ, The Netherlands Bus Sch, Straatweg 25, 3621 Bg Breukelen, The Netherlands, W. Baets / Nijenrode Univ, The Netherlands Bus Sch, Straatweg 25, 3621 Bg Breukelen, The Netherlands In the current global competitive environment, for an organization to be successful, it has to be a learning organization. Organizations learn from their assertive and adaptive interaction with the environment and from their internal dynamics. Organizational learning needs to be supported as external environments and internal dynamics of organizations become more complex. The paper discusses different organizational learning processes, the different intelligent support systems which can support and enhance organizational learning, and presents a conceptual framework of an integrated intelligent system for supporting organizational learning.

3) Modeling Knowledge from Multiple Experts: A Comparative Study Between Logit Modeling and Neural Nets, Tung Bui / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Info & Sys Mgmt, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong Capturing knowledge from multiple experts has been a critical issue in the development of expert system. We propose a methodology for retrieving and modeling the collective knowledge elicited from experts using logit modeling and neural networks. The methodology is applied to develop a knowledge-based DSS for scenario analysis and strategic planning. A comparison of the effectiveness of the two techniques will be performed.

1) The Impact of Multi-Location Procurement Strategies on Logistic Network Structures, Alain Martel / Univ Laval, Fac Sciences Admin, Quebec, Ste-Foy P Q, G1K 7P4, Canada Any serious effort to re-engineer a supply system must involve a simultaneous review of its procurement transportation warehousing processes, on one side, and of the structure of its facilities network on the other side. In this paper, we propose an integrated approach based on the iterative use of network optimization models and of policy simulation models, to deal with these complex design problems.

2) Customer Service in Physical Distribution: A Utility-Function Approach, James H. Bookbinder / Univ of Waterloo, Dept of Mgt Sci, Waterloo, On N2L 3G1, Canada, Maureen E. Lynch / K P M G Mgt Consultants, 2300 Yonge St, Toronto, On M4P 1G2, Canada Various two-attribute (lead time, fill rate) value functions are constructed and maximized, given a budget available for distribution service. Whether the value function is additive or multiplicative, a customer's overall utility for the optimal service levels is typically 20% higher than when the levels of those attributes are predetermined.

3) A Geographic Information System for Dispatching and Routing Delivery Vehicles, Yves Saint-Mleux / Cegep St Jean Sur Richelieu, St Jean Sur Richelieu, Quebec, Canada J3B 7B1, Gisele Montpetit / Cegep Ahuntsic, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3M 1Y8, Andre Langevin / Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal, Dept of Math & Ind Engr, P O Box 6079, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7 The dispatching of a vehicle fleet may be viewed as a two-step process: the grouping of the customers, and the sequencing of the visits. We designed a system for a small fleet of trucks. The approach is that of an interactive geographic information system using optimization techniques.

4) Logistics of Urban Snow Removal and Disposal, James F Campbell / Univ of Missouri, Dept of Mgt Sci, 8001 Natural Bridge Rd, St Louis, MO 63121-4499, USA, Andre Langevin / Ecole Polytechnique de Montreal, Dept of Math & Ind Engr, P O Box 6079, Montreal Quebec, Canada H3C 3A7 Snow removal and disposal are important winter public service activities in many cities. This presentation briefly describes urban snow removal and disposal operations, and then presents mathematical models and a decision support system for urban snow disposal. We include examples using data for the City of Montreal.

1) Intelligent Systems in Customer Service, Loke Kak Seng / Not Available. Rapid development of technology will change the way business operate. Customer-centric computer applications are an emerging trend. These applications will provide strategic selling, cross-selling, sales predictions, etc.

2) The Cross-Roads Between MIS and TQM for Health Services Delivery, Joseph K. Tan / Univ of British Columbia, Fac of Medicine, 5804 Fairview Av, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z3, Dean Uyeno / Univ of British Columbia, Fac of Bus Adm & Commerce, Mgt Sci Div, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z2 This presentation concentrates on emerging and critical roles of information and systems analysts in implementing TQM paradigm within the health care industry. Case studies and experiences will be discussed to provide insights as to how new standards of health services delivery may be achieved and how costly failures of TQM initiatives may be avoided.

1) Implementing Concurrent Engineering: A Case Study for Hong Kong Using AHP, V M Rao Tummala / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Mfg Engr Dept, Kowloon, Hong Kong, K.S. Chin / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Av, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, Ho Siu Hang / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Av, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong An integrated approach based on the concurrent engineering (CE) in the development of new products is showing impressive results to achieve the goal of reducing the cycle time to market to serve the needs of global competition. In this paper, an attempt is made to apply AHP to evaluate the costs and benefits in implementing CE among Hong Kong industries.

2) Neural Network Representations of Pairwise Preference Structures, Antonie Stam / Univ of Georgia, Terry College of Bus, Athens, GA 30602-6255, USA, Minghe Sun / Univ of Texas-San Antonio, Div of Mgt & Mkg, San Antonio, TX 78249-0634, USA We show how different artificial neural network architectures can represent the pairwise preference structures of analytic hierarchies. We report computational results for one of these architectures that is capable of closely approximating the true preference structure if the observed pairwise comparisions are somewhat imprecise, thus exhibiting the ability to generalize preference information.

3) The Relative Importance of the Criteria in the Multiplicative AHP, Freerk A Lootsma / Delft Univ of Tech, Fac of Tech Math And Info, Mekelweg 4, 2628 Cd Delft, Netherlands We define the relative importance of two criteria as the substitution rate between the relative (not the marginal) performance changes of the alternatives along an indifference curve. Under the geometric-mean aggregation rule this concept depends neither on the units of performance measurement nor on the performance of the alternatives under the remaining criteria.

4) Understanding Benchmark Measurement for the AHP, William C. Wedley / Simon Fraser Univ, Fac of Busi Admin, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5A 1S6, Eng Ung Choo / Simon Fraser Univ, Fac of Bus Admin, Burnaby, B C, Canada V5A 1S6, Bertram Schoner / Simon Fraser Univ, Fac of Busi Admin, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5A 1S6 Benchmark measurement is a new procedure for determining AHP priorities. Rather than comparing items to all relevant alternatives as in relative measurement or having known fixed standards as in absolute measurement, this new procedure makes comparison to a set of known benchmark alternatives. The advantages are the elimination of rank reversals and the ability to maintain a template structure.

1) Understanding and Using Multivariate Control Charts, M Raghavachari / Rensselaer Polytech Inst, DSES Dept, Troy, NY 12180, USA, James A. Alloway / Syracuse Univ, Dept of Mech/Aero/Mfg Eng, Syracuse, NY 13244-1240, USA Multivariate control charts are appropriate statistical tools to monitor a process when the overall quality of a product or service depends on several interdependent quality characteristics considered simultaneously. This tutorial illustrates the simplest multivariate control chart, that for 2 quality characteristics. The general multivariate case is presented for Shewhart and other types of charts. Identification of variables causing an 'out of control' situation is discussed. Software issues in constructing multivariate control charts are demonstrated. This tutorial is intended for quality professionals with a basic understanding of Shewhart control charts and the fundamental statistical principles upon which they are based. Knowledge of matrix is not required.

1) IT, MS and BPR: Some Cases Studies, K.V. Ramani / Indian Inst of Mgmt, Ahmedabad 380 015, Gujarat, India The term Business Process Reengineering (BPR) has now been established firmly in the management literature. BPR looks afresh at the work required to create a company's product or services and deliver value to the customer. The first generation of BPR (1988-93) was a big success in improving the organizational performance but it did not use much "OR/MS thinking," and consequently could not adequately address issues related to optimization of resources. The second generation of BPR is now emergng with active support from OR/MS and IT. We will discuss a few case studies of organizations which have benefitted extensively by applying OR/MS and IT in their BPR attempts.

Tuesday 15:45-17:00

1) Inventory Management Model for Water Resource Management, Boon-Lee Quek / Not Available., Yuan-Jiun Hai / Not Available., Teow Kiok-Hiang / Not Available.

2) Operational Loading, Yi-Ping Ng / Not Available., Tian-Tse Hian / Not Available., Wendy Koh / Not Available.

3) Scheduling of Logistics Building Behind Enemy Lines, Edmond Cheong / Not Available., Yi-Ping Ng / Not Available.

4) Prediction of Spares Requirements for Helicopter Engines, M. R. Bathe / Cranfield Univ, Sch of Defence Mgt, R M C S Shrivenham, Swindon, Sn5 8La, England, K Wand / Cranfield Univ, Sch of Defence Mgt, R M C S Shrivenham, Swindon Sn6 8La, England This paper describes the applicaton of a simple simulation model, based on an activity cycle diagram, to investigate the likely spares requirements for a helicopter engine for which reliability data are available. The model includes consideration of spare parts and spare modules as well as spare engines.

1) Learning Effects of Knowledge-Based Technical Analysis Systems for Financial Planning, Tadashi Dohi / Hiroshima Univ, Dept of Ind & Sys Engr, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima724, Japan, Shunji Osaki / Hiroshima Univ, Dept of Indust & Sys Eng, 1-4-1 Kagamiyama, Higashi-Hiroshima724, Japan The fuzzy logic is often applicable to the chart technical analysis in practical financial dealing. In this paper, we summarize the fuzzy expert systems based on the well-known Granville's law and quantitatively evaluate the learning effect of knowledge-based technical analysis systems. Especially, we focus on the simple timing strategy to sell or buy a stock. Neural networks are used for accurate predictions of future stock prices. Finally, we show that the learning algorithm through the numerical examples can improve the system performance.

2) Mean-Variance-Instability Portfolio Analysis: A Case of Taiwan's Stock Market, Shawin Lee / Nat'l Tsing Hua Univ, Dept of Econ, Kuang Fu Rd, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan, R O C, Kuo-Ping Chang / Nat'l Tsing Hua Univ, Dept of Econ, Kuang Fu Rd, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan, R O C This paper applies Talpaz, Harpaz and Penson's (1983) mean-variance-instability portfolio selection model to eight selected Taiwan's stocks during 1980-89 to demonstrate how instability preference affects the traditional mean-variance frontier. In contrast to THP's finding, the empirical results show that Taiwan's high-frequency stocks have high, not low, variance. This indicates that Taiwan, unlike US, investors prefer to speculate in high-variance stocks. The empirical results also show that short-selling may increase the risk of the portfolio when the investor is instability-preferred.

3) The Pricing Model of Oil Commodity Futures, Heru Subiyantoro / Nanzan Univ, Fac of Bus Admin, 18 Yamazato, Showa-Ku, Nagoya 466, Japan, Katsushige Sawaki / Nanzan Univ, Fac of Bus Admin, 18 Yamazato, Showa-Ku, Nagoya 466, Japan In this paper we discuss a pricing model of oil commodity futures combined with hedging strategies against exchange rate fluctuations. We also explore the impact of exchange rate and commodity price changes. An optimal strategy of the external debt in oil producing countries will be considered.

1) An Airport Passenger Terminal Simulator: The Planning and Design Tool, King Jim Hee / Nanyang Tech Univ, Gintic Inst of Mfg Tech, Nanyang Av, Singapore, 2263, Singapore, Zeph Yun Chang / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Decision Sci, Kent Ridge, Singapore, 0511, Singapore The evolution and development of passenger terminal design is carried out in a series of integrated steps, which can be identified as programming, concept development, final design and design development. This paper presents a generic simulation model for the final design of airport passenger terminal using SLAM II Simulation language. The animation is presented on facility diagram which graphically portrays the layout of passsenger terminal. Icons representing the entities of the system are provided. The model has been verified and validated by data obtained from the Singapore Changi Airport.

2) The Role of Uniform in the Perception of Relative Status of Airline Crew, Kerry Daniel / Univ of Tech, Sch of Mktg Sydney, P O Box 123, Broadway 2007, Australia, Lester W. Johnson / Univ of Sydney, Grad Sch of Business, Sydney N S W 2004, Australia Previous research by the authors indicated the importance of management investigating the 'look' of the uniform from the service providers perspective. This paper investigates the relationship between perceptions of uniform of airline crew and their perceived relative status, concluding with management recommendations.

3) Management of Airworthiness in the Airlines: The SIA Experience, Cheow Eng Chee / Singapore Airlines, Q C Dept, Sin-Alh-00A, Airline House, 25 Airline Rd, Singapore, 1781, Singapore This paper will discuss how SIA manages its aircraft engineering quality. It will cover the quality control aspects of the aircraft in production, service and maintenance. Specifically, the focus is on the monitoring of the quality of aircraft during manufacture, control of maintenance, inspection and modification of aircraft in service, quality auditing and the various monitoring programs in place to ensure airworthiness and reliability.

1) Estimating and Optimizing the Performance of Predictive Systems in Proactive Maintenance, Sam Weerahandi / Bellcore, Pya1G222, 6 Corporate Place, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA, T.V. Kurien / Bellcore, Mre 2M356, 445 South St. Box 1910, Morristown, NJ 07962, USA, Amir Sadrian / Bellcore, Nvc 2X209, 331 Newman Springs, Box 7020, Red Bank, NJ 07701 7030, USA This article presents a statistical methodology that may be used in quantifying and optimizing the efficacy of systems used to predict potential outside cable problems. There are a large number of factors driving trouble reports and typical data sets tend to be highly noisy. The quantification of Predictive tools performance requires careful modeling of the process governing the trouble reports. In this article, by using Generalized Linear Models (GLM), we have studied the effect of such a tool on Code 4 trouble reports as a function of the tool's parameters.

2) Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN) Integrity, Bichlien Hoang / Bellcore, 331 Newman Springs Rd, Room 2X447, Red Bank, NJ 07701, USA, Jack Zatz / Bellcore, 331 Newman Springs Rd, Room 2Z251, Red Bank, NJ 07701, USA With the deployment of the Advanced Intelligent Network (AIN), new and complex software and systems are being added to the existing network. In addition, new interfaces with additional SS7 traffic will further impact the CCS network. This presentation will summarize the results of a recent AIN network integrity review which was conducted at Bellcore. Potential AIN integrity issues are also identified through technical analysis, conformance testing, and AIN interoperability testing, which will be discussed in more detail.

3) Technology and Capacity Choice in Networks Under Alternate Control Regimes, P S Giridharan / Carnegie Mellon Univ, Grad Sch of Indus Admin, Carnegie Mellon Univ, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA We consider two types of control structures (optimal pricing and free-access) for networks, and derive implications of the control structure for the choice of technology and capacity. We show numerical results for different technology-capacity combinations.

4) Planning CCS Networks with Performability Objectives, Suk-Gwon Chang / Hanyang Univ, Dept of Business Admin, Sungdong-Ku, Seoul, 133-791, Korea This paper presents a top-down methodology for evaluating the CCS (Common Channel Signalling) network topological alternatives in view of user-oriented performability objectives. It includes the performance and topology decomposition, traffic load analysis and categorization of failure modes in CCS networks. To demonstrate the applicability, a case example was analyzed.

1) Beyond What-if: Introduction to Inductive Model Analysis Systems, Ramesh Sharda / Oklahoma State Univ, College of Bus Adm, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA, David Steiger / Univ of North Carolina, Dept of Info Sys & O R, Greensboro, NC 27512, USA We explore inductive model analysis as a means of decision maker's capabilities to develop insights into a decision problem represented by a model. We develop a frame work that triangulates the theory of learning, DSS, and model management system literature. We also describe a prototype system.

1) Regionally-Dedicated Internet Discussion Lists: New Focal Points for Research on International Topics, Natasha Bulashova / Pushchino Univ, Off of Info Services &, Distance Ed, Russia, Greg Cole / Univ of Tenn, Research Services, 211 Hoskins Library, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA, Gunther Maier / Univ of Econ & Bus Admin, Augasse 2-6, Vienna, Austria, Elliott Parker / Central Michigan Univ, Dept of Journalism, MT Pleasant, MI 48859, USA, James Reese / Univ of South Carolina, Sch of Bus Admin, 800 University Way, Spartanburg, SC 29303, USA Internet access has dramatically altered time and distance constraints which often inhibit scholarly collaboration. The panel profiles regionally-dedicated discussion lists which focus on Russia, Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia. Panel members (list owners) will report on the structure and objectives of their respective lists, and identify consequent research opportunities.

1) An Exploratory Study on the Information System for Creativity, Koichi Tonegawa / Ritsumeikan Univ, Fac of Policy Science, Tojiun-Kitamachi, Kitaku,Kyoto, Japan We claim that the evolution of the new age information technology enables us to envision the emergence of a new information system paradigm, which we call a creativity paradigm. After reviewing the managerial and technological background, we discuss some models which will furnish a conceptual framework for the construction of such an information system.

2) I.T. Consultant Selection Criteria, Usage Criteria and Engagement Priorities: An Empirical Study of IT Consultants in Singapore, Guy Grant Gable / Queensland Univ of Tech, Faculty of Information Tech, GPO Box 2434, Brisbane, 4001, Australia In a study of 110 computer system selection projects in Singapore, client and consultant views were elicited on the importance of 10 reasons for engaging an external expert, 15 consultant selection criteria and 8 project outcomes. This paper presents a descriptive analysis of these data and interpretation of disparities identified between client and consultant views.

3) Negotiation as a Technique For the Implementation of New Technology, Terri Griffith / Univ of Arizona, Mcclelland Hall, Room 405, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA, David A Tansik / Univ of Arizona, Mcclelland Hall, Room 405, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA Negotiation techniques create integrative implementation solutions such that incentives to use the technology are distributed for effective use and understanding. Results comparing the implementtaion of electronic-mail in a business school source suggest, as hypothesized, that negotiation is a more effective technique than the control implementation method.

1) Accelerating Information System Design with GDSS: Lessons from the U.S. Department of Defense, Alan R. Dennis / Univ of Georgia, Dept of Mgt, Terry College of Bus, Athens, GA 30602, USA This research presents 18 case studies of the business process modeling phase of information system design. Half of the groups used special-purpose GDSS modeling software, while the other half used commercially available single-user modeling software. GDSS groups produced higher quality models in about one fifth of the time.

2) Using GDS to Evaluate the Functionality and the Interface of a Woundcare Expertsystem with Future Users, Peter Muller / Univ of Groningen, Fac of Mgmt & Org, P O Box 800, 9700 Av Groningen, The Netherlands This presentation reports on a study in which the development and market introduction of a woundcare expert system have been supported by a GDSS. The beta version of the expert system has been tested and the problems with regard to the implementation of the systems have been discussed with a diffuse group of users and developers.

3) A Role of GDSS in Requirements Specifications, Robert Davison / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Dept of Info Sys, Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong GDSS naturally lends itself to the process of information requirements elicitation, enabling a broad spectrum of participants with differing levels of status, knowledge and expertise to become involved. The current research examines how we can adapt GDSS usage so that it supports the whole group and not just influential or voluable individuals.

1) Optimal Operating Policies for a Bottleneck Facility with Repairable Jobs, Kut So / Univ of California, Grad Sch of Mgmt, Irvine, CA 92717, USA, Christopher S. Tang / U C L A, Grad Sch of Mgmt, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA We present a model of a bottleneck facility that processes jobs in batches. Each processed batch is classified as good, repairable, or nonrepairable. A repairable batch can be repaired using the same facility. We evaluate the impact of batch sizes, yield, and switch-over cost on the optimal operating policy.

2) On Design of Multistage Production Systems: Is it Possible to be Both Lean and Quick?, D.W. Cheng / New York Univ, Dept of Statistics & O R, 40 W. 4th St.,704 Tisch Hall, New York, NY 10012, USA In the design of production systems, it is well known that buffer allocation and order of servers can affect system throughput. In this talk we examine the impacts of buffer and server allocations on inventory cost. We are interested in designs that both maximize throughput and minimize inventory cost.

3) A Model of a Production System with Stochastic Breakdown, Ki Ling Cheung / Hong Kong Univ of Science, Dept of Management, Kowloon, Hong Kong Machine breakdown is a major source of downtime in production systems. While different strategies in coping with stochastic machine breakdown have been raised in the literature, we provide an alternative model to analyze the problem, and define policies on relevant issues such as safety stocks investment.

4) Modelling the Costs and Benefits of Delayed Product Differentiation, Hau Leung Lee / Stanford Univ, Dept of I E - E M, Stanford, CA 94305, USA, Christopher S. Tang / U C L A, Grad Sch of Mgmt, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA Expanding product variety and high customer service provision are both major challenges for manufacturers to compete in the global market. This paper presents three different product/process redesign approaches (standardization, modular design, and process restructuring) for managing product variety that some companies have used. In addition, we develop a simple model that captures the costs and benefits associated with the redesign approaches.

1) Probabilistic Analyses and Practical Algorithms for Multi-Echelon Distribution Models, Lap Mui Ann Chan / Columbia Univ, 3041 Hartzell St, Evanston, IL 60201, USA, David Simchi-Levi / Northwestern Univ, Dept of Ind Eng & Mgt Sci, Evanston, IL 60208, USA We analyze a 3-level distribution system in which a production center distributes items to a given number of warehouses; from there, items are delivered to a set of retailers. We use probabilistic analysis to provide an asymptotically optimal policy specifying retailer assignment, inventory and routing strategy. Computational results are also included.

2) A Brownian Model for Inventory Control with Stochastic Demand and Obsolescence, Israel David / Ben-Gurion Univ of Negev, Dept of Ind Eng & Mgmt, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel, E. Greenshtein / Ben-Gurion Univ of Negev, Dept of Indust Eng & Mgmt, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel We consider cases where inventory is repeatedly wiped-out due to an exogenous failure process, which is assumed to be poisson. The demand process is stochastic in continuous time and the inventory level is modeled by a Brownian motion. The problem is to optimize lot-sizes in the threat of failure. Specific applications will be described.

3) Multiple Sourcing in a Stochastic Demand & Lead Time Setting, Ram Ganeshan / Penn State, 303 Bean Bus Bldg, University Park, PA 16802, USA, John Tyworth / Penn State Univ, 509 Bab I, University Park, PA 16802, USA, Yuanming Guo / Penn State, 303 Bean Bus Bldg, Univeristy Park, PA 16802, USA When demand and lead times are stochastic, splitting the replenishment quantity among multiple sources may reduce inventory system costs. This paper introduces a flexible procedure for evaluating multiple sourcing policy for fast moving, independent demand items in a continous review inventory system.

4) Investigation of Buffering in Stochastic Lot Sizing, William G. Vendemia / Youngstown State Univ, Dept of Mgt, 410 Wick Av, Youngstown, OH 44555, USA, B Eddy Patuwo / Kent State Univ, Grad School of Bus, Kent, OH 44242, USA, Henry Co / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Dec Sci, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore We investigate several strategies for setting safety stock levels in a system facing stochastic demand. We evaluate each strategy by numerically computing its expected total cost.

1) Flexible Manufacturing System Technology Costing: A Multifactor Model, Marvin Tucker / Southern Ill Univ-Carbondale, School of Accountancy, Carbondale, IL 62901, USA, Richard J. Palmer / Univ of Tennessee, Dept of Acc & Admin Svcs, Martin, TN 38238, USA Continuation of conventional approaches to costing production for the high technology costs of a FMS is inconsistent with the activity-based movement in strategic product costing. Therefore, an activity-based, multiple-factor model is developed for more accurately estimating a product's real consumption of FMS technology costs.

2) Optimization of a Controlled Flexible Manufacturing System, Paulo Renato De Morais / I N P E/L A C, Caixa Postal 515, 12201-970-Sjcampos, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Marcia Aparecid Monteiro / I N P E/L A C, Caixa Postal 515, 12201-970-Sjcampos, Sao Paolo, Brazil We consider a flexible manufacturing system consisting of a flexible unit feeding two assembly lines for the production of two types of products. The flexible unit and the assembly lines have waiting areas of finite capacity. A Markov Decision model is used to find the optimal policy for the acceptance/rejection of demands and for production of parts for the assembly lines.

3) A Hybrid Just in Time Production Updating, Amiya K. Chakravarty / Tulane Univ, A. B. Freeman Sch of Bus, New Orleans, LA 70118-5669, USA In a hybrid control system, production quantities and resource requirements are planned in anticipation of demand; they are updated in real time to match actual demands. We show that (a) the hybrid control outperforms both JIT and MRP, and (b) optimal allocation of production capacity is based on a rank order of product characteristics.

1) EDI and the Globalization of Production, Chang-Tseh Hsieh / Univ of Southern Miss, Dept of M I S, Box 5077, Southern Station, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA Globalization of production has become a popular strategy for maintaining competitablility. Coordination of production activities across the board, however, must heavily rely upon the information technology. This paper addresses the use of electronic data interchange (EDI) for maximizing the efficiency of controlling multinational production systems.

2) Global Job Shop Scheduling with Genetic Algorithm and Learning Machine, Chung-Yee Lee / Univ of Florida, Dept of Ind And Sys Eng, 303 Weil Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA, Selwyn Piramuthu / Univ of Florida, 351 Bus, Dec & Info Sciences, Gainesville, FL 32611 2017, USA, Yi-Kuen Tsai / Univ of Florida, Dept of Ind & Sys Eng, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA Scheduling a job shop in a global context is considered in this study. We utilize the beneficial effects of both genetic algorithms and machine learning appropriately for scheduling in real-time. We discuss several different approaches in this regard.

3) Some Structural Properties in Cellular Manufacturing Systems, Shu Ming Ng / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Info & Sys Mgt, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Ting-Li Lin / Univ of Southern California, 825 S Second St, Alhambra, CA 91801, USA In many of the manufacturing systems, it is difficult to group and schedule via cellular manufacturing approach. This research studies the behaviour of these systems. Our findings show that there are certain characteristics which can readily distinguish well-structured systems from ill-structured systems.

1) INTERPROD: Progress on a 16-Country Study, William E Souder / Univ of Alabama-Huntsville, Cmost, Ste 126 Asb, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA This is a progress report of lessons learned from INTERPROD, a multicountry study of factors influencing the success and failure of new product developments. When completed, the INTERPROD database will consist of life cycle data on over 2,000 new product innovations all over the world.

2) National Culture Impact on Product Innovation Outcomes, D.H. Buisson / Univ of Otago, Dept of Marketing, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand, T.C. Garrett / Univ of Otago, Dept of Mktg, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand, William E Souder / Univ of Alabama-Huntsville, Cmost, Ste 126 Asb, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA Team and people culture in product innovation influence the process utilised and the outcomes of innovation. Company globalisation requires understanding of key cultural innovation differences. Critical cultural success and failure factors will be discussed from data collected in countries of the INTERPROD 16 country study.

3) High Technology New Product Development: Factors Affecting UK Industry, Rachel Cooper / Univ College Salford, Cdmt, Frederick Rd, Manchester, M6 6Pu, England, Vicki Burrell / Univ College Salford, Cdmt, Frederick Rd, Manchester, M6 6Pu, England, Tim Jones / Univ College Salford, Cdmt, Frederick Rd, Manchester, M6 6Pu, England Findings are presented on UK new product development from a two-year collaborative study as part of INTERPROD. Issues facing UK firms and their challenges for the future will be discussed.

4) U.S. Versus German Trends in New Product Mangagement, Franz M. Binninger / Univ of Passau, Passau, 94030, Germany, Helmut Schmalen / Univ of Passau, Passau, 94030, Germany, William E Souder / Univ of Alabama-Huntsville, Cmost, Ste 126 Asb, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA Increasing globalization has become an important factor in new product development. Competence must not be limited to one culture. Results from a study (INTERPROD) of German vs. U.S. success factors in new product development being conducted at the University of Alabama in Huntsville will be presented.

1) Global Market Dynamics: Excelling for Competitiveness, Dale Littler / Univ of Manchester Ins of Sci & Tech, Manchester Sch of Mgt, P O Box 88, Manchester, M6O 1Qd, Great Britain Contemporary technological, socio-economic and political drivers are forming a new paradigm of international marketing that in turn has significant implications for the sources of international competitiveness. Based on longitudinal studies for several sectors, ranging from retailing to mobile communications, the paper highlights the factors which enhance organizational effectiveness in international markets and draws out the implications for international marketing.

2) Strategic Alliances in Global Marketing Channels, Bert Rosenbloom / Drexel Univ, 32nd And Market Sts, Philadelpia, PA 19104, USA Strategic alliances on a global scope have become increasingly important in recent years. Such strategic alliances in the context of vertical marketing channel relationships have played a major role in this development. This paper discusses the problems and prospects for strategic alliances in marketing channels as a strategy for gaining and sustaining distribution in foreign markets.

3) Comparative Stategies in the Global Expansion of Service Industries, Ravi Sarathy / Northeastern Univ, 360 Huntington Av, Boston, MA 02115, USA This paper reviews entry strategies in a variety of industries to suggest which strategies seem appropriate under varying industry and environmental conditions.

1) On the Role of Weight Restrictions in Data Envelopment Analysis, Peter Smith / Univ of York, Dept of Economics, Heslington, York, Y01 Sdd, Great Britain, Francisco Pedraja-Chaparro / Univ Extremadura, Dept Economics Applications, Badajoz, 06071, Spain, Javier Salinas-Jimenez / Univ Extremadura, Dept Economics Applications, Badajoz, 06071, Spain The decision to include a factor (input or output) in a DEA model represents an implicit judgement that the factor has a non-trivial weight. It therefore seems perverse to allow DEA to assign a trivial weight to that factor. The paper provides a taxonomy of a alternative methods of weight restriction, and explores their implications using simulated data from a well known production process.

2) Ill-Conditioning and Its Impact on Modeling for Technical Efficiency Measurement, Konstantinos P Triantis / Virginia Tech, Dept of Indust & Sys Eng, 2990 Telestar Ct, Falls Church, VA 22042, USA, Bill Searer / Univ of Tenn, Dept of Stats, Knoxville, Tn, USA In this study, the objective is to identify the implications of ill-conditioning and collinearity on the production function specifications that is used in DEA or econometric approaches. Once ill-conditioning and collinearity are identified then their implications on efficiency measurement and evaluation are studied. These approaches are illustrated using a linear bourel manufacturing dataset.

1) Convexity in the Image Space, T Rapcsak / Hungarian Academy of Sci, Computer & Auto Research Inst, Kende U 13-17, H-111 Budapest, Hungary, F Giannessi / Univ of Pisa, Via Buonarotti 2, 256127 Pisa, Italy Some convexity and geodesic convexity properties of the image and image mapping, as well as consequences for exploiting linear and nonlinear separation theorems will be studied.

2) A General Framework for Characterizing Solvability of Inequality Systems with Application to Optimization, B.M. Glover / Univ of Ballarat, Sch of Info Tech & Math Sci, P O Box 663, Ballarat, Victoria, 3353, Australia, A M Rubinov / Ben-Gurion Univ of The Negev, Dept of Math & Computing, Fac of Natural Sciences, Beer Sheva, 84105, Israel We outline a general approach to the study of infinite inequality systems involving generalized convex functions. The approach involves the use of generalized conjugation schemes and support sets such as subdifferentials which are widely used in the study of optimization problems. In particular the results provide a characterization of optimality for a broad class of global optimization problems.

3) Characterizations of Optimality in Constrained Global Non-Convex Optimization, V. Jeyakumar / Univ of New South Wales, Sch of Math, Sydney 2052, Australia Characterizations of global optimality will be given for general difference convex optimization problems involving convex inequality constraints. An extension of Farkas' lemma will also be given. Applications to weakly convex programming problems, convex maximization problems and fractional programming problems will be discussed.

4) Duality in Generalized Fractional Programming, S. Chandra / Not Available.

1) A Superlinear Interior-Point Algorithm without a Strict Complementarity Condition, Shinji Mizuno / Inst of Stat Math, 4-6-7 Minami-Azabu, Minato-Ku, Tokyo 106, Japan We propose an interior-point algorithm for a linear complementarity problem and we prove its superlinear convergence without a strict complementarity condition. The algorithm can start from any positive initial points and has globally linear convergence.

2) An Interior Point Method for Solving MOLP Problems, Rashid M. Al-Kahtani / Univ of Oklahoma, Sch of Ind Engr, 202 W Boyd, Ste 124, Norman, OK 73019, USA, Theodore B. Trafalis / Univ of Oklahoma, School of Ind Eng, 202 West Boyd Ste 124, Norman, OK 73019, USA This paper presents an interior point technique for solving multi-objective linear programming problems. Specifically, we consider a cutting plane method of analytical centers in obtaining the best compromise solution. At each iteration the method interacts with the DM to obtain local trade-offs which are used to generate a cut that reduces the feasible region.

3) Computing Lower Bounds for the QAP with an Interior Point Method, K.G. Ramakrishnan / A T & T Bell Labs, 600 Mountain Ave., Room 2C-126, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA, Mauricio G.C. Resende / A T & T Bell Laboratories, 600 Mountain Av, Room 2D152, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA, Zvi Drezner / California State Univ, Dept of Mgt Sci & Info Sys, Fullerton, CA 92634, USA We compute lower bounds for a wide range of quadratic assignment problems using a linear-programming-based lower bound. The LPs, which can be large even for a moderate-size QAP are solved with an interior point code that use a preconditioned conjugate gradient algorithm. LP solutions using CPLEX and CPLEX barrier are compared.

1) The Use of Comparative Evaluation in the Project Selection Process, Robert Parsons / Northeastern Univ, 314 Hayden Hall, Boston, MA 02130, USA Traditional project selection techniques evaluate proposals against a set of selection criteria in isolation, and then compare candidates on the basis of some overall score. Comparative evaluation compares candidates on each individual selection criterion against the other candidates as constrasted to comparison in isolation against some established standard.

2) ISAGE: A Tool for Improved Product Introduction and Innovation, Ronald Perry / Northeastern Univ, Dept of Indust Eng & Info Sys, Boston, MA 02115, USA, Jason J. Kim / Northeastern Univ, Dept of Indust Eng & Info Sys, Boston, MA 02115, USA Simulation analysis can often contribute to an effective manufacturing plan, which is key to successful product innovations. Simulation skills of manufacturing planners may need enhancement. ISAGE (Intelligent Simulation Advisory and Guidance Environment) is a computer-based advisory system that helps simulationists to more appropriately model, code and analyze manufacturing systems. Through an interactive, graphic user interface, ISAGE asks questions that lead the user to more methodologically correct simulation analyses.

3) Communication of Project Termination Decisions, R. Balachandra / Northeastern Univ, 314 Hayden Hall, Boston, MA 02115, USA The process of communicating the successful completion of an R&D project to the project team is relatively straightforward. But communication of a project termination can be problematic. This paper presents the results of a recent survey among US firms as to how they have handled communicating project termination decisions.

1) Integration of Production Control and Marketing Decision Making Systems of a Printing Company, Chan Yan-Chong / City Univ of Hong Kong, Dept of Appld Stats & O R, 83 Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong There is always a conflict in making joint interdepartmental decisions in a company. This paper presents a joint decision system used in a printing company for setting quotations that take into account the competition, material costs and utilization of the production facilities which can be considered as a process of production control.

2) Competitiveness of China's State Enterprises: Analysis, Measurement, and Improvement Issue, Youmin Xi / Xi'An Jiaotong Univ, Mgmt Sch, Xi'An, Shaanxi 710049, China China's state enterprises operated under favorable conditions before and during the economic reform, but they lacked vitality and competitiveness. Most of them are now in a state of bankruptcy or on the verge of insolvency. The concepts of vitality and competitiveness are reviewed and the reasons why state enterprises lack vitality and competitive edge are explained.

3) A Systematic Study of the Productivity Enterprise in China, Difang Wan / Xi'An Jiaotong Univ, Mgmt Sch, Xi'An, Shaanxi 710049, China Pressure to reform their operational mechanisms and the urgency of becoming more competitive put increasingly greater burden on China's state enterprise. The ownership concept is accepted not as a target, but a means to boost productivity. This study will attempt to identify strategies to improve productivity by focusing on the role of ownership structure.

1) Transferring AI Technology to the Manufacturing Industry, Julian Windsor / Nanyang Tech Univ, G I N T I C Inst of Mfg Tech, Singapore, 2263, Singapore Singapore's industry is undergoing rapid changes. Labor intensive industry is giving way to technology intensive industry. The nation is under pressure value-add to its products. As a result there is a demand for the computerization and automation of manufacturing processes. Central to this is the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems by companies. Examining successes and failures sheds light on what a company should (and should not) do to successfully harness the potential of AI, and may provide some insight into the impact AI will produce when it finally becomes commonplace in manufacturing companies.

2) Applied Intelligence in Investment, Tan Pan Yong / Inst of Sys Sci, Trading & Investment, Application Group, This paper relates the application of soft computing technologies (neural networks, genetic algorithms. chaos theory, and fuzzy logic) to augment investment activities forecasting prices/returns, asset allocation, selection and ranking of assets, etc. Key design issues are illustrated with real-world problems, and research trends in the area are discussed.

3) Using Intelligent Systems for Redistributing Organizational Expertise and Reengineering Business Processes, Jasbir Dhaliwal / Singapore Natl Univ, Singapore, Singapore This paper discusses how practitioners of operations management can utilize the deployment of intelligent systems as part of an action plan for redistributing business processes. It especially focuses on how such systems allow organizational expertise to be redistributed more optimally to facilitate operational effectiveness and improve service quality.

3)
TRACK ORGANIZATION
CHAIR: A. LEE GILBERT Not Available.

1) The Evolution of Policy Formulation: A Historical Analysis of IT Policy Development in Singapore, A Lee Gilbert / Not Available.

2) Policy Development as Learning, A Lee Gilbert / Not Available.

1) Search and Rescue Problems, Fiona H. Taylor / Massey Univ, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand, John W. Giffin / Massey Univ, Private Bag 11222, Palmerston North, New Zealand Search and rescue problems modelled on a Triangulated Irregular Network representation of terrain are introduced. Modelling aspects, incorporating as much realism as possible, are discussed together with suggested heuristic solution approaches. Preliminary computational results are presented.

2) On Location of the Two Competitive Facilities, Shigehiro Osumi / Univ of Osaka Pref, 1-1 Gakuencho, Sakai-Shi, Osaka, 593, Japan, Shogo Shiode / Osaka Univ, Dept of Math Sci, Fac of Eng, Yamadaoka 2-1 Suita, Osaka, 565, Japan, Hiroaki Ishii / Osaka Univ, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita-Shi, Osaka, 565, Japan, Yoshinobu Teraoka / Univ of Osaka Pref, 1-1 Gakuencho, Sakai-Shi, Osaka, 593, Japan We consider a competitive facility location model on a plane, in which there exist two companies A and B, which establish some facilities in order to increase their own market shares. We consider the Stackelberg equilibrium problem and propose a solution procedure for the problem.

3) A Stochastic Facility Location Problem Under Competitive Environment, Shogo Shiode / Osaka Univ, Dept of Math Sci, Fac of Eng, Yamadaoka 2-1 Suita, Osaka, 565, Japan In this paper we investigate a competitive facility location problem in which the weights of demand points are random variables. In our model we locate a facility in order to minimize the criterion of total buying power robbed by the rival facility with more than a certain probability.

4) A Facilities Planning System for the Explosives Production and Distribution, Palitha Welgama / C S I R O, Div of Maths & Stats, Private Bag No 2, Glen Osmond, Sth, 5064, Australia, Graham Mills / C S I R O, Div of Maths & Stats, Private Bag No. 2, Glen Osmond, Sth, 5064, Australia, Khalid Aboura / C S I R O, Div of Maths & Stats, Private Bag No. 2, Glen Osmond Sth, 5064, Australia, Ross Sparks / C S I R O, Div of Maths & Stats, Locked Bag 17, North Ryde, N S W, 2113, Australia A simulation model was developed for evaluating and comparing different alternatives to the existing production/distribution system of a major explosives manufacturing company. A statistical model was developed for the daily demand from the mining customers. The simulation provided insight into the company's operations and helped select an expansion configuration.

1) Global Disaggregation of Information-Intensive Services, Uday M. Apte / Southern Methodist Univ, Cox School of Business, Dallas, TX 75275-0333, USA, Richard O. Mason / Southern Methodist Univ, Cox School of Business, Dallas, TX 75275-0333, USA Responding to global competition, and progress in information technology, value chains of information-intensive services are being globally disaggregated. Analyzing recent experiences, the paper proposes a taxonomy of disaggregation, and develops criteria and managerial guidelines for successfully selecting service activities and choosing the appropriate country location in global disaggregation decisions.

2) Designing Winning Operations Strategy for the Global Services Enterprise, Harve Mathe / Univ of Penn, Wharton Sch, Room 1312 Steinberg-Dietrich, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6366, USA This paper addresses: 1. What are the key success factors of the globalization process for a service company for which the distinctive competitive advantage relates on the sophistication and integrity of its delivery process? 2. How to expand globally the quality integrity of a given service organization, even in the case high local adaptation is apparently required to access to geographically new markets? 3. How to implement an effective local customization of management of human resources and partnerships in different regions of the world?

3) Exportability of Delivery Processes and Globalization of Service Company, Jack Barry / E D S - M C S, One Memorial Dr, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA, Cynthia Perras / E D S - M C S, One Memorial Dr, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA This paper will summarize the results of the latest phase of an on going research initiative focused on "the globalization process in the Service Sector" undertaken by EDS Management Consulting Services with a team of faculty members from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and from the University of Lausanne in Switzerland.

4) Designing for Global Services, Richard C.H. Chua / Juran Inst Inc, 11 River Rd, Wilton, CT 06897, USA, Joseph A De Feo / Juran Inst Inc, 11 River Rd, Wilton, CT 06897, USA To compete globally, service organizations can no longer provide services designed for the country of origin only. A global service must be designed to meet the diverse needs of its multi-national, multi-lingual, and socially and economically diverse global customers. A process for designing global quality services will be presented.

1) Multiple Objective Approaches, Modelling and Degeneracy, Jerald P. Dauer / Univ of Tenn At Chattanooga, 615 Mccallie Av, Dept of Math, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA, Yi-Hsin Liu / Univ of Nebraska - Omaha, Dept of Mathematics, 60th And Dodge, Omaha, NE 68182-0243, USA In this work the problem of maximizing a nonlinear objective over the set of efficient solutions of a multicriteria linear program is considered. This is a nonlinear program with nonconvex constraints. The approach is to develop an active constraint algorithm which utilizes the fact that the efficient structure in decision space can be associated in a natural way with hyperplanes in the space of objective values. Applied models and numerical experience, in the presence of degeneracy, are included.

2) Entrepreneurs and Cognitive Complexity, Kenneth J. Preiss / Univ. of Western Sydney (Macarthur), Dept. of Mktg. & Mgmt., P.O. Box 555 Campbelltown, New South Wales 2560, Australia This paper explores the cognitive domain of entrepreneurs, the differentiated cognitive structure, conformity and complexity of their cognitions about entrepreneurial activities, innovation and decision making. It challenges the view that entrepreneurs develop coping strategies to reduce cognitive uncertainty as a means of gaining control within their operative environment (Starr & Fondas, 1992).

3) Interpretation of Criterion Weights in Multiple Criteria Calibration, Eng Ung Choo / Simon Fraser Univ, Fac of Bus Admin, Burnaby, B C, Canada V5A 1S6, William C. Wedley / Simon Fraser Univ, Fac of Busi Admin, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5A 1S6, Bertram Schoner / Simon Fraser Univ, Fac of Busi Admin, Burnaby, BC, Canada V5A 1S6 The different uses of criteria weights in different multiple objective decision making models imply different interpretations and meaning of criteria weights. To calibrate alternatives by multicriteria in existing MCDM models, we consider the following related issues: units of measurements, scale of measurement, trade-off measurements, commensurability, validity, invariance, rank reversal and consistency of ranking.

4) Considerations for the Balancing Problem in Discriminant Analysis, Kim Fung Lam / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Dept of Ar, 83 Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Jane W. Moy / Hong Kong Baptist College, Dept of Mgmt, Hong Kong In discriminant analysis, when the number of observations in the two groups is asymetric, most of the IP approaches have upward bias in the hit-ratio towards the larger group. As a remedial measure to this balancing problem, we propose a weighted deviation approach which can eliminate some of the bias.

1) Markov Exchangeable Damage Accumulation Model, Pei-Sung Tsai / Not Available.

2) Economic Models for Vendors Selection for a Product Containing Two Purchase Components, Chiu-Cheng Chyu / Not Available.

3) A Value Focused Approach to Maintenance Management, Shou-Dauh Lin / Not Available.

4) A Maximal Entropy Principle for Marketing Plan, Chouchen Wu / Not Available.

5) Critical Quality Factors Leading to Global Success: The SATS Inflight Catering, Zeph Yun Chang / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Decision Sci, Kent Ridge, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Wee Yong Yeong / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept Dec Sci, Fac of Bus Adm, 10 Kent Ridge Cr, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, Lawrence Loh / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, Singapore, 0511, Singapore The Singapore Airline Terminal Services (SATS) Inflight Catering has maintained a 47-year zero food poisoning record. SATS Catering has also been the first flight kitchen being awarded the ISO 9002 Certificate for production of inflight meals. A strong sense of mission coupled with management experiences and culinary professionalism have resulted in the establishment of many joint-venture kitchens all over the world through equity participation. This paper presents the quality leadership, quality design, quality people and quality processes of the SATS inflight Catering.

1) Developing a Sophisticated Understanding of the Practice of Business Process Reeengineering: Structuration Theory, Chun Kwong Han / Univ Peranian Malaysia, Faculty of Econ & Mgmt, Malaysia, Rodzlan Bakar / Ibm, Malaysia Giddens' structuration theory is a subtle view of context and process and their interconnectin through interpretive schemes, resources and norms. It provides a sophisticated understanding of the success of a practical organizational transformation initiative in terms of a strategic alignment of vision, resource and power relations, values, and tacit rules.

2) Evaluating IT-based Business Process Changes via the Hedonic Wage Model, Alfred Taudes / Vienna Univ of Busi Adm., Dept Ind Information Proc., 1200 Vienna, Pappenheimg, 35, Austria Sassone's Hedonic Wage Model (HWM) for quantifying the benefits of office automation is usually applied on aggregate work profiles. Thus only general insights and no recommandations regarding systems design are obtained. To achieve this goal we supplement the HWM with a Petri Net based business process analysis. This integrated method for evaluation productivity and effectiveness gains is demonstrated using the introduction of DBMS and EDI.

3) Reengineering in Latin America: Some Practical Lessons from Personal Experiences at a Multinational in Brazil and Mexico, Sergio G.R. Chamone / Xerox Brazil, Av Rodriques Alves, 261, 20220-360, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, T.D. Macedo-Soares / Pontifical Catholic Univ, Puc-Rj, Rua Marques de Sao Vicente 225, 22451-041, Rio DE Janeiro, Brazil Drawing upon personal experiences in reengineering business processes at both strategic and operational levels at a multinational in Brazil and Mexico, this paper stresses the importance of developing and following a sound methodology consistent with a strategic process vision. It describes in detail the methodologies used in the two projects at issue, explaining how the numerous difficulties encountered throughout the first stages of the reengineering processes were overcome.

4) Technological Validity in Business Process Reengineering, Lin Gingras / Univ of Laval, Fac of Admin Sci, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4, Benoit Aubert / Univ Laval, Fac of Admin Sci, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4, Lyne Bouchard / Laval Univ, Fac of Admin Sci, Quebec, Canada G1K 7P4 Having conducted case studies and a large study of business process reengineering (BPR) in Canada, we propose a model for the analysis of technological validity in a BPR context. We analyze the role of technological validity, its context and its meaning for various groups involved in BPR.

Tuesday 17:15-18:30

1) Force Effectiveness Assessment, Kah Wah Lai / Ministry of Defence, Singapore, Cdso, Mindef Bldg, Gombak Dr, Singapore, 2366, Singapore, Kim Pong Ong / Ministry of Defence, Singapore, G5-Army, Mindef Bldg, Gombak Dr, Singapore, 2366, Singapore This paper outlines the approach used to help assess the operational effectiveness of given fire support force structure options. An area weapon model was first used to generate expected damages for each firing unit - target type combination. These weapon effectiveness results are then fed into a series of linked spreadsheets which trace the phases of the fire support plans. The proportions of missions fulfilled indicates the temporal adequacy of various force structure options. The utilisation/idleness rates revealed opportunities for improving fire support allocation.

2) An Analytical Approach to Assessing Lethality of Area Weapons in Salvo Attack, Gim Koon Yeo / D S O - Mindef, 20 Science Park Dr, Singapore, 0511, Singapore This paper presents a simple modelling technique that can be readily employed for assessing the lethality of area weapons in a salvo attack. The measure of effectiveness is the expected damage to the area target after a salvo attack. To illustrate the use of the technique, analytical models for several scenarios such as attack against hard targets requiring multiple hits on the same spot, attack against targets with arbitrary damage contour, attack using multiple aim-points with arbitrary hit distribution and smart weapon attack are derived.

3) Analysis Support Environment, Bok Chan / Axon Research, Tanglin, P O Box 0398, Singapore 9124, Singapore, Cheng Hwee Sim / Ministry of Defense, Gombak Dr, Singapore 2366, Singapore A computerized system was developed to help analysts carry out OR projects. It was built based upon a visual object-oriented idea processor. OR-related information is encapsulated as visual templates and checklists. Models can be documented and executed from within the environment.

4) Strategic Airlift Assets Optimization Model, Teo Weng Lim / Rep of Singapore Air Force, H Q R S A F O A Branch, Gombak Dr, Singapore, SE 2366, Singapore, David Morton / Naval Postgrad Sch, O R Dept, N P S, Monterey, CA 93942, USA, Richard E. Rosenthal / Naval Postgrad Sch, O R Dept, N P S, Monterey, CA 93943, USA A GAMS optimization model helps US Air Force improve logistical efficiency. It maximizes on-time cargo and passenger throughput for a given air fleet over a given network, subject to physical and policy constraints. The model helps answer questions about selecting airlift assets and about investing or divesting in airfield infrastructure.

1) Property and Stock Prices in Hong Kong, Yuming Fu / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Dept of Econ & Fin, Hong Kong Property prices in Hong Kong are among the highest in the world and are very volatile. This paper examines the determinants of property prices and the interactions between the property markets and the stock price market in Hong Kong.

2) Distribution of Golf Course Prices in Japan, Zari Rachev / Univ of California, Dept of Stats, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA, W.T. Ziemba / Univ of Brit Columbia, Fac of Commerce, 2053 Main Mall, Vancouver B C, Canada V6T 1Y8 Golf course membership prices in Japan form a $250 billion plus market. They provide good data on speculative land prices because weekly transaction data in various areas are available from January 1982 to the present. We consider the distribution of these prices and also the Nikkei and Topix stock averages. Key questions considered are: was ther a speculative bubble in any or all of these prices in the late 1980's; what are the properties and form of univariate and multivariate models of these prices; and how do the latter compare with US asset prices.

3) Land and Stock Prices in Japan, Douglas Stone / Nicholas Applegate, Global Res Dept, 600 W Broadway, 29th Floor, San Diego, CA 92101, USA, W.T. Ziemba / Univ of Brit Columbia, Fac of Commerce, 2053 Main Mall, Vancouver B C, Canada V6T 1Y8 We consider the relationship between land and stock prices in Japan from 1955 to 1994. This is analyzed in terms of price changes, lead and lag relationships and econometric predictive models. Both essential use (housing, industrial, etc.) and speculative land (measured by golf course membership prices) is considered. The time path of land and stock price rises and declines is studied throughout the study period with particular focus on the large rise in the late 1980's and fall in the early 1990's.

1) Dynamic Flight Scheduling System, Andrew Lim / Information Technology Inst, 71 Science Park Dr, Singapore 0511, Singapore In this paper, we shall present an online dynamic flight scheduling system that will dynamically assign flights to planes satisfying various constraints. In the event that no feasible assignment is found, the system will propose good alternatives.

2) A Decision Support Framework for Fleet Routing and Flight Scheduling, Shangyao Yan / Nat'l Central Univ, Dept of Civil Eng., Chungli, Taiwan ROC, Hwei-Fwa Young / Nat'l Central Univ, Dept of Civil Eng., Chungli, Taiwan ROC This research develops several multiple time-space network models to help carriers adjust draft timetables and fleet routes when market demand conditions are changed. These models are formulated as multiple commodity network flow problems. Solution algorithms are suggested. A case study regarding operations of a major Taiwan airline is presented.

3) Constraint-based Gate Allocation and Reallocation, Rainer Berger / Knowledge Eng Ptc Ltd, Changi Airport, P O Box 8001, Singapore 9181, Singapore We have developed a constraint-based gate and belt allocation system for airports that performs reallocation in real-time as changes in flight information and resource availabilities are received. The system uses object-oriented AI search and optimization techniques to find the most preferred solution while keeping last-minute changes to a minimum.

4) Optimal Booking Policy for Multi-Segment Flights, Marvin Hersh / Florida Atlantic Univ, Dept Decision & Info Systems, Boca Raton, FL 33431-0991, USA, Tak C. Lee / Nat'l Univ of Malaysia, Fac of Bus Mgt, Bangi, Selagor, Malaysia A model is presented for controlling the seat inventory in multi-segment flights. An analysis using Dynamic Programming shows that the optimal policy can be simplified to certain critical values which can be used to control the reservation process while significantly reducing the computational time for solving the problem.

1) Design of Survivable International Telecommunication Networks, G Anandalingam / Univ of Pennsylvania, Dept of Systems Eng, Towne Bldg, Philadelphia, PA 19104 6315, USA, Keesung Nam / Univ of Penn, Dept of Systems Eng, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6315, USA The problem of designing survivable international telecommunication networks is solved to near optimality using simple heuristics. A minimum cost survivable network is obtained first, then capacity assignment and routing problems are solved under normal and link failure conditions. Numerical results and sensitivity analysis are reported for the Pacific Basin network.

2) Optimal Interconnection of L A Ns Using Spanning-Tree Routing Bridges, June S. Park / Univ of Iowa, Dept of Mgt Science, Iowa City, IA 52242-1000, USA, Fred Kaefer / Univ of Iowa, Dept of Mgt Sciences, Iowa City, IA 52242-1000, USA An I P model is constructed with finds a minimal-cost interconnection of L A Ns using I E E E 802.1 bridges. The model prevents congestion even in a L A N or bridge failure. A tabu search alsgorithm to determine protocol parameters is presented. Tight Lagrangian bounds are obtained based on the parsimonious property of biconnected networks.

3) Survivable Network Design in Connection with S D H Networks, Geir Dahl / Univ of Oslo, Inst of Info, Gaustadalleen 23, P O Box 1080 Blindern, Oslo, 0316, Norway, Mechthild Stoer / Norwegian Telcom Research, Instituttveien 23, P O Box 83, Kjeller, N-2007, Norway We consider some optimization problems arising in the design of survivable telecom networks based on the new S D H transmission technology. Models and methods for finding cost-effective networks with suitable ring structure are presented. Furthermore some preliminary conputational results based on realistic data are given.

4) Designing and Planning Wide Area Private Networks, Heung Sik Choi / Univ of ROChester, W E Simon Grad Sch of Bus Adm, Rochester, NY 14627, USA This paper studies reconfigurable private digital networks that employ Digital Crossconnect Systems using T1 and T3 circuits. The link capacity decision (a long-run problem) and a crossconnect scheme (a short-run problem) are combined to exploit economies of scale. Numerical examples and experiments support the importance of integrated planning.

1) Logic Programming with Pseudo-Boolean Constraints, Alexander Bockmayr / Max - Planck Inst For Infor, I M Stadtwald, D-66123 Saarbrucken, Germany We survey recent work on the constraint logic programming language CLP(PB) for logic programming with pseudo-Boolean constrains, which combine Boolean algebra with arithmetic and are closely related to 0-1 integer programming. We give some typical applications in operations research and artificial intelligence. Then we present cutting plane techniques for the solution of linear pseudo-Boolean constraints.

2) Tight Representation of Logical Constraints, Hong Yan / Carnegie Mellon Univ, GSIA, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, John Hooker / Carnegie Mellon Univ, GSIA, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA Suppose one wants to incorporate loginal rules or constraints into a mathematical programming model. We derive the tightest possible (i.e., convex hull) representation of one class of logical constraints, namely cardinality rules. These say that if at least K of A, B, C, etc. are true, then at least L of P, Q, R, etc. are true.

3) Constraint Logic Programming and Its Application to Scheduling Problems, Mehmet Dincbas / Parc Club Orsay Univ, Cosytec, 4 Rue Jean Rostand, Orsay Cedex, 91893, France Constraint Logic Programming is a new emerging and very promising technology that appeared at the end of the 80's. It tends to generalise conventional Logic Programming (examplified by Prolog) by introducing, besides basic logical inference mechanisms, more mathematical and algorithmic techniques. It is especially well suited for solving complex "constraint search problems" where there are several types of constraints. Typical current application areas of CLP are production scheduling, project management, and crew assignment.

4) Logic and LP-Based Design of Truss Structures, John Hooker / Carnegie Mellon Univ, GSIA, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, Srinivas Bollapragada / Carnegie Mellon Univ, GSIA, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA, O. Ghattas / Carnegie Mellon Univ, Mechanical Engineering Dept, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA We compute optimal design of truss structures by combining logic-based and LP-based methods. We use logic processing to control the enumeration of linear relaxations of the problem. We also derive cuts in the form of logical propositions to prune the search tree. The cuts are stronger than valid cuts but do not exclude the optimal solution.

1) Internet-Protocol Connectivity in Russia, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia: Opportunities and Obstacles, Anatoly Voronov / Glasnet, Sadovaya Chernogriazskaya Ul 4, Moscow, 107078, Russia, Tony Byrne / Int'L Res & Exchange & Board, 1616 H St, N. W., Washington, DC 20006, USA, Bill Fick / Int'L Res & Exchange Board, 1616 H St N. W., Washington, DC 20006, USA, Raymond Viers / P E R D C A, Project On Econ Reform & Devel, Furkat St.1, Room #609, Tashkent, 27, Uzekistan, Stan Brunn / Univ of Kentucky, Dept of Geography, Lexington, KY 40506-0025, USA The panel presents a status report on enhanced Internet Protocol connectivity options in geographic regions where communications have been problematic. Representatives of GlasNet in Moscow, IREXNet in Washington, and SilkNet in Central Asia will profile regional linkage developments. Discussion of the geography of information provides a synthesizing view of developments.

1) IT Security and Control in International Hotels, Ann Nguyen / Griffith Univ, Fac of Eng & Appl Sci, Pmb 50, Gold Coast Mall Cntr, Qld 4217, Australia, John Van Rooy / Griffith Univ, Fac of Eng & Appl Sci, Pmb 50, Gold Coast Mall Cntr, Qld 4217, Australia, Richard Carey / Griffith Univ, Fac of Eng & Appl Sci, Pmb 50, Gold Coast Mall Cntr, Qld 4217, Australia Tourism is one of the fastest growing industries in the Asia-Pacific region. This paper examines current information technology (IT) security and control practices in major international hotels in Queensland, Australia. The investigation covers key aspects of security and control, including the physical security of the equipment, access controls, backup procedures, remedial and preventative maintenance, contingency planning, and software and data integrity. The paper also includes recommendations for improvement.

2) Success Factors for Implementation of Executive Information Systems, Gregory K. Whymark / Central Queensland Univ, Faculty of Business, ROCkhampton Qld 4702, Australia, A. Srivihok / Central Queensland Univ, Faculty of Bus, ROCkhampton Qld 4702, Australia This paper describes a theoretical framework for EIS development, and uses it to analyse two case studies, one a failure and one a success. The two projects are compared and with the assistance of the theoretical framework, a number of the success factors identified. Further research required is also addressed.

3) Rapid Application Development Using Screenflow Engineering, John Paynter / Univ of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand The Screenflow systems development methodology provides an efficient and effective means of creating application based in such a shared relational database environment. This paper describes the methods used to develop a corporate information system at Goodman Fielder Wattie (NZ) Ltd.

1) A Workbench to Support the Evaluation of IS/IT Investment, Vasilis Serafeimidis / London Sch of Econ & Poli Sci, Info Sys Dept, Houghton St, London Wc2A 2Ae, Great Britain, Steve Smithson / London Sch of Econ & Poli Sci, Info Sys Dept, Houghton St, London Wc2A 2Ae, Great Britain In this presentation the evaluation of Information Systems is approached as an important and complex process which involves many groups of stakeholders. It discusses a conceptual model in order to provide a foundation to approach evaluation as a group decision making process. The framework is used to elicit the user requirements and the design the modules of the workbench. A case study of the development of a prototype of it is also presented.

2) The Use of the Grouputer in Preparing Information Management Plans, Edward Lewis / Univ of New South Wales, Dept of Comp Sci, Australian Defence Force Acad, Canberra, Australia, Charles Newton / Univ of New South Wales, Dept of Comp Sci, Australian Defence Force Acad, Canberra, Australia The presentation addresses our experiences in using the Grouputer GDSS to develop the Information Management plans of various agencies in Australia and in the Philippines. The Grouputer is a facility designed in Australia that allows 12 participants to share ideas and judgements at the same time and place. We have used the facility extensively to produce vision statements, user requirements, and policy decisions for the use of information systems. The presentation discusses the lessons that we have learned and the suggestions that we have for designing GDSS for Information Management planning.

3) G(D)SS as Support for Designing Organizations and Information Systems-Concluding Discussion: Where Do We Go from Here?, Gert-Jan De Vreede / Delft Univ of Tech, Sch of Sys Eng, Policy Analysis, And Mgt, Jaffalaan 5, 2600 Ga, The Netherlands, Gary W. Dickson / North Carolina State Univ, Dept of Bus Mgt, Box 7229, Raleigh, NC 27695-7229, USA, Henk G. Sol / Delft Univ of Tech, Sch of Sys Eng, P O L Analysis, & Mgt, Jaffalaan 5, Delft 2600 G A, Netherlands The role G(D)SS as support for designing organizations and information systems is discussed in four sessions: GDSS and Integrated Aprroaches to IS and Organization Design, GDSS as Support for Organization Development, and GDSS as Support for Information Systems Design (Part I and II). The main themes of these sessions are summarized while highlighting salient features. Opportunities for further research are identified. The floor is opened for discussion, and the sessions' participants are encouraged to comment on the issues raised during the presentations.

1) Hydrodynamic Limit of Feedback Queues in Series, Raj Srinivasan / Univ of Saskatchewan, Dept of Math & Statistics, Saskatoon, Sk S7N 0W0, Canada We study a large serial network with feedback via some simple models of interating particle systems. This approach provides valuable insights into how these networks approach equilibrium. Using a simple exclusion process, we derive the so called 'hydrodynamic limit' of this network.

2) Stochastic Representation of Pick-and-sort Systems, Gunter P Sharp / Georgia Inst of Tech, Sch Indst/Sys Eng-Logstcs Inst, 765 Ferst Dr, Atlanta, GA 30332-0205, USA, Kyung-Il Choe / Samsung Data Sys Co. Ltd., 219-1, Migun-Dong,Seodaemun-Gu, Imkwang Bldg, Seoul 120-020, Korea, Richard F. Serfozo / Georgia Tech, ISYE, 765 Ferst Dr, Atlanta, GA 30332-0205, USA A pick-and-sort (PAS) system for order picking consists of an aisle-based pick system (PS) and a conveyor loop accumlation and sorting system (A/SS). The PAS is formulated as a 2-stage tandem queue. Analytical results are compared to those from simulation.

3) An Approximation Procedure for Semaphore Queueing Systems, Paul Luh / Natinal Chengchi Univ, Dept of Mathematical Sciences, Taipei, Twiwain ROC We present a control mechanism for analyzing open queueing networks. This queueing model can be used for performance evaluation of a processing system of simultaneous resource possession which arises in a multiple programming situation. The approximated congestion measures of such a system are analyzed and calculated.

4) A Noval Approach for Analyzing Vacation Queues with General Input Process We introduce a new approach for modeling and analyzing vacation queueing systems. We assume that uncertainty can exist in the customer's arrival process, service time, and server's vacation time. Our analysis provides explicit expressions for the mean and variance of the cycle time and the average customer waiting time.

5) Traffic Intensity Estimation in M/M/1 Queues with Covariates, So Young Sohn / Naval Postgraduate School, Dept of Operations Research, Code Or/Sh, Monterey, CA 93943, USA, Chul Sohn / Korea Local Admin Institute, Seoul, Korea In this paper, we consider a set of individual M/M/1 queues in which variations in both arrival rates and service rates are partly explained by some covariates representing associated characteristics of individual queues. The random error that takes into account the remaining variation is assumed to follow either a gamma or a lognormal distribution. Several methods for estimating the traffic intensity parameter are suggested and their performances are compared.

1) A Framework to Examine Inventories for Supply Chain Management, G. Raghuram / Indian Inst of Mgt, Public Systems Group, Vastrapur, Ahmedabad, 380 015, India This paper examines the nature of inventories in the supply chain to help analyse what desirable inventory levels should be and how to go about reducing the excess inventories. Inventories can be classified as being due to size requirements (shipment, order quantity, batching), pipeline (transportation, work in process), buffer stocking (to cover uncertainties in lead time and demand), and mix requirements (order processing prior to manufacture and prior to despatch).

2) Simultaneous Reduction on Setup Cost and Lead Time Variability, Xin Xin He / South Carolina State Univ, Dept of Bus Admin, Sch of Bus, Orangeburg, SC 29117, USA Using the concept of pseudo-setup cost with stochastic lead time inventory models, we analyze setup cost and lead time reduction simultaneously with a closed-form expression. Consequently, the result of this research provides an important mechanism for integrating the studies on setup cost reduction and lead time variability reduction.

3) Inventory and Disposal Policies in Response to a Sale, K. Jo Min / Iowa State Univ, 205 Engineering Annex, Isu, Ames, IA 50011, USA We study inventory and disposal policies in response to a sale. Disposal can be a valuable managerial tool (e.g. due to holding cost advantages). The total cost saving is maximized over various inventory and disposal policies, and the optimal objective value and decision variables are analyzed for managerial insights.

4) A Survey of Quantity Discount Inventory Models, Omprakash K. Gupta / Indiana Univ Northwest, Div of Bus & Econ, 3400 Broadway, Gary, IN 46408, USA In this paper, we survey inventory models dealing with quantity discount. In addition to reviewing the literature, the survey will identify gaps and suggest potential research areas.

5) Deterministic Inventory Models with Linearly Increasing Demand and Random Lead Time, Shailesh Bhavsar / Not Available.

1) Green Manufacturing, Soheila Jorjani / Cal State Univ - S M, College of Bus, San Marcos, CA 92096-0001, USA, Jack Leu / Cal State Univ - S M, College of Bus, San Marcos, CA 92096-0001, USA, Sheldon Lou / Cal State Univ - S M, College of Bus Admin, San Marcos, CA 92096 0001, USA, George Diehr / Cal State Univ - S M, Coll of Bus, San Marcos, CA 92096-0001, USA Green Manufacturing in a global market is one of the newest challenges facing the "environmentally conscious" manufacturing organizations. This paper surveys the practices of these organizations as well as the environmental regulations in U.S. and European countries. In addition, issues related to product design and reverse distribution in the content of green manufacturing will be discussed.

2) Perspectives on Process Improvement in Manufacturing Systems, Paul Iyogun / Wilfrid Laurier Univ, School of Busi & Econ, Waterloo Ontario, Canada N2L 3C5 The purpose of this research is to identify common features of programs for process improvement in manufacturing. Programs such as TQM, continuous improvement, process re-engineering, agile manufacturing, etc., have been proposed. The potential impact of each of these on an organization will be discussed.

3) An Integrated Model for Dynamic Production Scheduling, Jiyin Liu / Hong Kong Univ of Sci & Tech, Dept of Ind Eng, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong Production scheduling is a crucial function in production and operations management. This paper identifies and ephasizes two main characteristics of practical scheduling problems, dynamic nature and the need for overall optimization. Two types of previous scheduling approaches are then reviewed and discussed. A conceptual model from a control theory perspective is then presented as a framework for integrated dynamic scheduling problem. The controller of the model is described and discussed. The relationship between the new approach and the previous scheduling approaches is also discussed.

4) On Measures of Flexibility, Swaminathan Sankaran / Univ of Regina, Fac of Admin, Regina, Sk, Canada S4S 0A2 Flexible Manufacturing Systems or F M S are finding increasing favour in advanced economies under current economic conditions. However, there are different kinds and levels of flexibility to be used either as benchmarks or as goals. There are no uniform guidelines for applying or measuring these notions of flexibility. This paper attempts a critical evaluation of proposed measures of flexibility.

1) One-Machine Batching and Sequencing of Multiple-Type Items, Edwin Cheng / Hong Kong Polytechnic, Fac of Business & Info Sys., Hung Hum, Hong Kong, Z.L. Chen / Princeton Univ, Dept of Civil Engg & Oper Res, USA, Ceyda Oguz / Hong Kong Polytechnic, Department of Management, Hung Hom Kowloon, Hong Kong We consider a single-machine batch scheduling problem with setup times to minimize the total job flowtime. There are N jobs of T different types. Only jobs of the same type can be batched. We present a dynamic programming algorithm to solve this problem.

2) A Layered Matching Heuirstics for the Manufacturing Machine Design Problem, Merza H. Hasan / Kuwait Univ, College of Commerce, P O Box 5486, Safat, 13055, Kuwait, Abdul-Kareem Al-Saffar / Kuwait Univ, Colleg of Commerce, P O Box 5486, Safat, 13055, Kuwait The paper is concerned with the development of a heuristic algorithm based on layered matching (K matching) to maximize a weighted sum of adjacent activities. The K-matching model is formulated as maximal player graph problem. The solution quality and computational time generated from the proposed procedure compared with the other algorithm is good.

3) On the Fixed Interval Due-Date Scheduling Problem, Chung-Lun Li / Washington Univ, John M Olin Sch of Business, Campus Box 1133, St Louis, MO 63130, USA, Chung-Yee Lee / Univ of Florida, Dept of Ind And Sys Eng, 303 Weil Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA Given a set of jobs, "fixed interval due dates" are assigned and jobs are scheduled so that the total due date cost plus the total earliness is minimized and each job must be finished at or before its due date. Computational complexity and worst-case analysis of this problem are discussed.

4) Determination of Common Due Window Location in a Single Machine Scheduling Problem, Surya D. Liman / Texas Tech Univ, Dept of Ind Eng, Lubbock, TX 79409-3061, USA, Shrikant S. Panwalkar / Lonestar Co, Pune, India, Sansern Thongmee / Texas Tech Univ, Dept of Ind Eng, Lubbock, TX 79409-3061, USA We consider a single machine scheduling problem in which n jobs have a common due window. Jobs that are completed within the window incur no penalty. The objective is to find the optimal sequence and the optimal common due window location based on a given due window size such that the total earliness, tardiness, and common due window location penalties are minimized.

5) Fast Parametric Scheduling Algorithms, S. Thomas Mccormick / Univ of Brit Columbia, Fac of Commerce, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z2 Y.L. Chen gave polynomial algorithms for two variations of a scheduling problem where the processing times can be shortened at a cost. This paper shows how parametric network flow techniques lead to much faster algorithms for both of Chen's problems. We also consider some extensions of Chen's model.

1) Determinants of Successful New Product Developments in Australia, Larry Dwyer / Univ of Western Sydney, Centre For Mgmt & Leadership, P.O. Box 555, Campbelltown, Nsw 2560, Australia, Robert Mellor / Univ of Western Sydney, Centre For Mgmt & Leadership, P.O. Box 555, Campbelltown, Nsw 2560, Australia, Stewart Clegg / Univ of Western Sydney, Centre For Mgmt & Leadership, P.O. Box 555, Campbelltown, Nsw 2560, Australia, Sharon Kemp / Univ of Western Sydney, Centre For Mgmt & Leadership, P.O. Box 555, Campbelltown, Nsw 2560, Australia Results from a study of new product developments in Australian biotech, pharmaceutical, telecommunication and electronics firms are reported. Critical success/failure factors are identified and links are made between culture, sub-culture and orgainzational performance for new product success.

2) Cross Cultural Study of New Product Development Methods in Small Organisations - New Zealand vs US, D.H. Buisson / Univ of Otago, Dept of Marketing, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand, T.C. Garrett / Univ of Otago, Dept of Mktg, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin, New Zealand, William E Souder / Univ of Alabama-Huntsville, Cmost, Ste 126 Asb, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA The management of innovations varies in different national environments. We address the results of comparative study between New Zealand small to medium sized companies with small U.S. companies. Critical success and failure factors will be discussed with significant differences highlighted (part of the UAH 16 country INTERPROD study).

3) Comparison of US and Singapore New Product Innovation Management, Chee-Meng Yap / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Indu & Sys Engineering, Singapore, 0511, Singapore, William E Souder / Univ of Alabama-Huntsville, Cmost, Ste 126 Asb, Huntsville, AL 35899, USA The new product development issues and success/fail factors in Singapore and the U.S. are remarkably similar as well as different. This paper will discuss the lessons learned from this comparison, and the implications for new product managers in the two cultures.

4) Time-to-Market Strategies Across Linked Industries: The Case of U.S. Semiconductor Manufacturing, Steven Brown / Sematech/Motorola, 2706 Montopolis Dr., Austin, TX 78741-6499, USA, Donald A. Hicks / Univ of Texas-Dallas, 5718 Buffridge Trail, Dallas, TX 75252, USA, Jennifer Robinson / Sematech, 2706 Montopolis Dr, Austin, TX 78741-6499, USA This paper describes the results of a benchmarking effort to identify information and insights about the time-to-market concept, its development, and application. Published resources, agencies, professional societies, and universities were appraised to determine applicability of this external knowledge base in defining appropriate metrics for the semiconductor industry.

1) Nonlinear Advertising Capital Model, Irma Luhta / Univ of Vaasa, P.O. Box 700, Vaasa, Fin-65101, Finland In this paper a time delayed feedback system between advertising and goodwill is developed on the basis of the classical Nerlove-Arrow advertising capital model. A continuous advertising function and three different effects of advertising on the dynamics of goodwill are used. The conditions in relation to the stabiltiy of the limit point of the system are also clarified.

2) Inferring Ad Effectiveness from Recognition Tests, Anil Gaba / I N S E A D, Boulevard de Constance, Fontainebleau Cedex, 77305, France, Niraj Dawar / I N S E A D, Boulevard de Constance, Fontainebleau Cedex, 77305, France Recognition tests are widely used to measure effectiveness of advertisements. However, much controversy surrounds such measures. The primary criticism is that such measures do not account for response bias, which can be considerable. We propose a framework which accounts for such response bias while estimating recognition of a particular ad.

3) Affective Attitude Towards Advertisement and Its Relationship to Acculturation and Behavioral Intention to Buy, Durriya Z. Khairullah / St. Bonaventure Univ, 2316 Sheldon Dr, Allegany, NY 14706-9440, USA, Zahid Khairullah / St. Bonaventure Univ, 2316 Sheldon Dr, Allegany, NY 14706-9440, USA The study investigates whether the Asian-Indian immigrants' affective attitudes towards American and Indian origin print advertisements vary within and across stages of acculturation. The relationships between acculturation, affective attitudes towards advertisements and behavioral intention to buy the advertised products are examined.

4) Predicting the Annual Sales of RAC in Korea Using Growth-Cycle Decomposition Diffusion Model, Young Jin Joo / Kaist, Dept of Mgmt Sci, 373-1 Kusong-Dong Yusong-Gu, Taejon, 305-701, Korea, Duk Bin Jun / Kaist, Dept of Mgmt Sci, 373-1 Kusong-Dong Yusong-Gu, Taejon, 305-701, Korea, Myoung Hwan Park / Hansung Univ, Dept of Ind Engr, 389 Samsun-Dong 2 Ga, Sungbuk-Gu, Seoul, 136-792, Korea We develop the growth-cycle decomposition diffusion model to distinguish the S-shaped growth from the short-run fluctuations caused by changes in the external environment. The proposed model is applied to the diffusion of the room air conditioners in Korea where the usual application of Bass model cannot explain the transient sales fluctuations due to unusually high temperatures.

5) Advertising Pulsing Policies and the Impact of Manufacturing Costs, Srinath Gopalakrishna / Penn State Univ, Dept of Marketing, University Park, PA 16802, USA, Richard J. Steinberg / Gte Laboratories, 40 Sylvan Rd, Waltham, MA 02254, USA Previous studies have shown the superiority of advertising pulsing over constant spending. However, the pulsing issue has been treated in isolation. The close linkages between marketing and manufacturing have been ignored. We consider production costs and report conditions under which advertising pulsing may or may not be superior to a policy of constant spending.

1) Variation of Efficiency in the Stochastic DEA, Hiroshi Morita / Kobe Univ, Dept of Comp & Sys Eng, Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe, 657, Japan We consider the stochastic DEA when the inputs and outputs are observed including random noise. In this case, the deterministic model may bring an incorrect evaluation. The stability of efficient unit and optimal weights against the stochastic variations are discussed.

2) Evaluation of Asia-Pacific Service Economies Using DEA, Tomofumi Sumita / Univ of Electro-Comm, 1-5-1 Chofugaoka, Chofu, Tokyo 182, Japan This paper evaluates efficiency of the service economies in Asia-Pacific area. To carry out the theme, Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is employed. In parallel with DEA, a new comprehensive indicator will be introduced to evaluate various types of economics models in a lump.

3) An Observation on the Cone-Ratio Model in DEA, Kaoru Tone / Saitama Univ, Grad School of Policy Science, Urawa, Saitama, 338, Japan Usually, there exists ambiguity in the virtual multipliers in the polyhedral cone-ratio method when some exemplary efficient DMU's multipliers are employed as the admissible directions of the cone. We will show three practical methods for resolving this ambiguity along with an example.

1) Analysis of a Cutting Plane Method That Uses Weighted Analytic Center and Multiple Cuts, Zhi-Quan Luo / Mc Master Univ, Dept Ece, Hamilton Ontario, Canada L8S 4K1 We consider the analytic center cutting plane or column generation algorithm for solving general convex problems defined by a separation oracle. The oracle is called at an approximate analytic center of a polytope, which contains a solution set and is given by the intersection of the linear inequalities previously generated from the oracle. We consider using approximate weighted analytic centers in the cutting plane method, and show that the method, with multiple cuts added in each step, has an improved complexity.

2) Declarative Systems and Integer Programming, P. Davison / Citri, 723 Swanston St, Carlton, Vic, 3052, Australia Concise, declarative systems are more flexible to an evolving and dynamic problem environment. We provide a description of an architecture for developing mathematical programming systems which uses an interpretation of algorithms as problem generation and solution intercommunication procedures. The design and implementation of a state-of-the-art mixed integer programming algorithm within the framework is presented.

3) Distributed Solution of Stochastic Programs with Restricted Sources, Stavros A. Zenios / Univ of Penn, Wharton Sch - Oper & Info Mgt, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA, Hercules Vladimirou / Dept of Public And Business Ad, University of Cyprus, 75 Kallipoleos St PO Box 537, Nicosia 141,00500, Cyprus

1) Nurse Scheduling in Singapore: A Proposed Optimizing System, Robert A. Straughan / Nec Singapore Pte Ltd, No 1 Maritime Square #12-10, World Trade Centre, Singapore, 0409, Singapore, Paulin Tay Straughan / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Dept of Sociology, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore The scheduling of nurses in Singapore is done manually. This paper proposes a computerized scheduling system that optimizes on the schedule preferences of individual nurses. The proposed system would decrease the time required to generate schedules and increase the quality of schedules. Improved schedules would aid in staff retention.

2) Optimization Models & Strategy for Driver Rescheduling in Public Transport, Kenneth Darby-Dowman / Brunel Univ, Dept of Math And Statistics, Uxbridge U B 8 3 P H, U K, James Little / Brunel Univ, Uxbridge Ub8 3Ph, Uk, Shirley Moody / Brunel Univ, Uxbridge Ub8 3Ph, Uk Rescheduling in terms of amending an existing schedule to reflect changed requirements is an important issue in sectors as diverse as manufacturing and public transport. This paper discusses practical issues and reports computational experience with optimization models applied to real problems arising in driver rescheduling in public transport.

3) AMX: The Adaptive Multi-crossing-site Crossover and its Applications to Combinatorial Optimization, Lei Zhang / Natl Natural Sci Foundation, Dept of Info Science, Beijing, 100083, China The permutation-based representation is a nonbinary genetic coding technique that is important, popular, and widely used in searching a feasible and efficient solution of such an NP-hard combinatorial optimization problem as the traveling salesman problem, flow-shop problem, etc. The partially-mapped crossover operator PMX is the most famous permutation operator. This paper presents a new crossover operator, the adaptive multi-crossing-site crossover (AMX) which can overcome drawbacks of PMX and be easily implemented.

4) Effectiveness of Evoutionary Searches in Robust Design, Tapan Bagchi / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Ind Eng, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A4, Canada, Krishan Raman / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Ind Eng, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A4, Canada, J. G. C. Templeton / Univ of Toronto, Dept of Ind Eng, 4 Taddle Creek Rd, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A4, Canada This paper presents an exposition of genetic algorithmic approaches to seeking robust designs. The general multiple objective robust design problem is re-formulated as a constrained optimization problem. Pilot tests are conducted to obtain optimum GA search parameters, which appear problem specific. The search is completed with appropriate penalty-augmented recursion. Five earlier-solved Taguchi-type solutions are revisited. The approach produces final designs as good as or better than those given in the recent literature. Computational aspects are extensively discussed.

5) Profit Maximization In a Constrained Production Environment., Gerhard Plenert / Byu - Ibm, 660 Tnrb, Provo, UT 84602, USA A mathematical model that combines profit maximization and cost minimization will be presented. It was developed using geometric programming.

1) R & D Management Challenges In a Changing Environment, Ashok K. Gupta / Ohio Univ, College of Bus, Athens, OH 45701, USA, David Wilemon / Syracuse Univ, Innovation Mgt Program, Sch of Mgt, Syracuse, NY 13244, USA In this article we present the major changes that have occurred in the managment of R&D during the last 5-7 years, and the anticipated changes. Then, we discuss the factors that have caused these changes to occur. Lastly, we present the importance of certain skills and knowledge domains needed to manage R&D effectively and the capability the R&D groups exhibit in each area.

2) Managing Interorganizational R & D Projects, Pepin Cabo / Univ of Groningen, Sch of Mgmt & Organization, P O Box 800, Groningen 9700 Av, The Netherlands The collaboration of different types of organizations (companies, universities, and research institutes) from different nationalities in an R & D project poses specific management problems. It appears that in the startup and feasibility phase, these problems especially concern consensus on the involvement of participants, objectives and methods of R & D. This is shown by a comparative analysis of various cases.

3) R & D Decisions, Firm Size and Market Structure, Robert W. Vossen / Univ of Groningen, School of Mgt & Org, P O Box 800, Groningen 9700 Av, The Netherlands This paper discusses the empirical performance of a model of R & D as a function of firm size, in which a distinction is made between the strategic participation and tactical expenditure decisions. The paper is based on surveys on R & D in the Dutch industry in 1988 and 1992.

1) Productivity and Its Relationship with Competitive Strategy Formulation, Celik Parkan / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, AR Dept, 83 Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong We report on the results of interviews with various organizations in the manufacturing and service sectors in Hong Kong and China. The purpose of the interviews was to understand the prevailing perception of the concept of productivity, its relationship with operational competitiveness, and its significance in strategy formulation.

2) Optimization of Buffer Allocation in Automatic Assembly Systems, John W Leung / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Dept of Applied Stat & Op Res, Tat Chee Rd, Hong Kong, K K Lai / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Av, Dept of Applied Stat & O R, Kowloon, Hong Kong Most researchers have focused on developing approaches to evaluate or predict the performance of assembly systems. This paper focuses on developing models for the optimization of buffer allocation for automatic assembly systems. Guidelines will be presented to help engineers and management in selecting the "best" buffer storage allocation configuration.

3) Scheduling Reservation Operators: The Effects of Assumed Call-Time Distributions, Jerome D Wiest / City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong A mixed mathematical programming/heuristic/simulation model for scheduling information-reservation operators at a large Asian airline company is described.In the absence of relevant empirical data, various assumptions regarding the distribution of call times are tested, to measure the sensitivity of simulation outcomes to the choice of several mathematical distributions examined. Several of these distributions yield almost identical results, in terms of design parameters for the information/reservation system. Differences in simulation outcomes seem to be related to the standard deviations of the distributions compared.

1) Supporting Shell Environment for Expert System Construction in CIM Systems, Dragan M. Eric / D P N P Sloboda, Ratka Mitrovica B.B., 32000 Cacak, Yugoslavia, Mihailo Mladjenovic / Oshawa, Toronto, Canada This paper shows some possibilities of applications experts systems in CIM systems. KES II (Knowledge Engineering System II) shell systems are used. A fundamental of that system is the development base of knowledge.

2) Object Oriented Mathematical Modeling in Smalltalk, Kiriakos Vlahos / London Business School, Regents Park, London Nw1 4Sa, Uk, Akin Adamson / London Bus Sch, Regents Park, London Nw1 4Sa, Uk OOMP is an object-oriented mathematical programming language and supporting environment which aims to bring the benefits of object orientation and graphical modeling to the widely used mathematical modeling languages such as GAMS and AMPL. The main features of the language are discussed as well as the implementation of the language in the Smalltalk programming environment. The iconic model representation and graphical model design capabilities are also described.

3) Object-Orientation: A Summing Up, Ramkumar Ramaswamy / Infosys Tech Ltd, Plot No 44 & 97A, 3rd Cross, Konnappana Agrahara, Elect City Bangalore, 562 158, India Object-orientation (OO) is the latest buzzword in the information systems field. However, OO is far from being a silver bullet. In this paper we summarize the status of the OO paradigm, with special reference to OO as an Analysis and Design methodology.

4) An Expert System for Underwriting Personal Catastrophe Liability Policies, Talluru Lakshminarayana Rao / Penn State Univ, The Behrend College, Erie, PA 16563-1400, USA Underwriting a personal catastrophe liability (PCL) policy involves a careful evaluation of client's personal, professional, financial, and other demographic factors. The underwriting process is considered complex and requires the expertise of an experienced underwriter. Insurance companies are looking for cost effective ways to carry out the underwriting task. This paper presents an expert system to underwrite the PCL policies. A protype system will be demonstrated to highlight the importance of the research.

1) Individual Behavior & Group Performance in a Computer-Mediated Group Problem Solving Environment, William Rybolt / Babson Coll, Math/Science Division, Babson Park, MA 02157, USA This paper describes a pilot experiment examining individual behavior and group performance in a computer-mediated group problem-solving environment. The results are examined using a set of generic variables that define a model intended to aid in the design and implementation of CSCW systems.

2) IT Impact on Office Productivity, Jaak Jurison / Fordham Univ, Grad Sch of Bus, 113 West 60th St., New York, NY 10023, USA Improving productivity in service industries is a major challenge for managers. This paper describes the results of a longitudinal office productivity study. It analyzes the impact of an integrated office information system on different categories of office workers and develops guidelines for future IT implementations in office settings.

3) IT Investment and Its Impact in Developing Countries, Dennis Kira / Concordia Univ, 1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3G 1M8, Jorge Nava / Concordia Univ, Rio Balsas 32, Cp 39560, Acapulco Gro, Mexico This study investigates the impact IT investments have on organization's performance in developing countries. The financial rations will be used as a performance measure. The results from Mexican experience will be reported.

4) Impact of Information Systems Applications on Organizational Benefits, Yash P. Gupta / Univ of Colo - Denver, Col of Bus Admin, P.O. Box 173364, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA, Arik Ragowsky / Wayne State Univ, Dept of Acctg, Sch of Bus, Detroit, MI 48202, USA, Toni M Somers / Wayne State Univ, School of Business, Finance & Business Econ Dept, Detroit, MI 48202, USA In this paper we examine if information systems applications directly effect organizational benefits, (e.g., cost reduction) and if they are related to organizational characteristics, (e.g., investment in raw material). The indirect effect of IS applications on organizational benefits through organizational characteristics, as a mediating variable, is determined. We develop a path-analytic model based on a sample of 310 manufacturing firms.

1) A Business Process Model for Logistics Operations in Manufacturing Enterprises, Shigeki Umeda / Musashi Univ, 1-26 Toyotam-Kami, Nerima, Tokyo 176, Japan, Muneo Mutsutani / Mitsubishi Elec Co,, Senya Nikawa / Andersen Co,, Hideo Suzuki / Fujitsu Co, This paper represents a novel business process model, which represents information-flows and material-flows in manufacturing enterprises logistics operations. The model includes a hierarchical information system model, management operations models, and business performance indices. These are the reference models to build strategic logistics systems for manufacturing enterprises.

2) DRP: An Information Technology for Logistics Integration, Chrwan-Jyh Ho / Oklahoma State Univ, 342 CBA, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA The information sharing between suppliers/manufacturers and retailers becomes an important competitive weapon in the current retailing revolution. The purpose of this paper is to present an information technology framework, distribution resource planning, for information integration and supply sourcing.

3) Stochastic Vehicle Routing Problem: State of the Art and Future Directions, Kant Rao / Penn State Univ, 509 L Bus Admin Bldg, University Park, PA 16802, USA, Michael A. Haughton / Penn State Univ, 501 H Bus Admin Bldg, University Park, PA 16802, USA The stochastic vehicle routing problem (SVRP) opens at least two sets of operating strategies for addressing the outbound problems. This paper reviews the state-of-the-art in this line of research and presents specific research questions for extending it.

1) Accelerated Burn-In Process, Y V Hui / City Univ of Hong Kong, Dept of Appl Stat & O R, 83 Tat Chee Av, Hong Kong, L Lu / City Polytech of Hong Kong, Dept of Applied Stats & O R, Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong

2) A Heuristic for Scheduling Train Operators of a Mass Transit System, Wing Cheong Ng / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong This paper studies the problem of scheduling crews of a mass transit system to meet the daily service requirement. Because of the complexity of the problem, it is difficult to solve it optimally. Therefore, the problem is decomposed into several more manageable sub-problems. A heuristic is then developed to solve the problem by constructing a schedule based on the solutions of the sub-problems.

3) Using a Queueing Model to Improve Credit Authorization Operations, W.K. Leung / City Polytech of Hong Kong, Dept of Applied Stats & O R, Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong

4) An AHP Approach for Productivity Measurement, Grang Has / City Polytech of Hong Kong, Dept of Applied Stats & Or, Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong, K K Lai / City Polytechnic of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Av, Dept of Applied Stat & O R, Kowloon, Hong Kong

5) Analysis of Residential Care Service for the Elderly in Hong Kong, Kokin Lam / City Polytech of Hong Kong, AR Dept, 83 Tat Chee Av, Kowloon, Hong Kong The Hong Kong elderly population is continuously increasing and families are increasingly less able to serve as the sole carer of their elderly member. We analyze the difficulties associated with the provision of residential services for the elderly using computer simulation. The simulation program helped decision makers the explore what-if scenarios associated with system capacity, selection criteria, and other factors.

1) A Multiple Criteria Method to the Generation of Alternatives for Weapon Systems, Shinn Sun / Univ of New South Wales, Dept of Comp Sci, Univ College, Adfa, Canberra Act 2600, Australia This paper describes an interactive method for solving a discrete multiple criteria problem under uncertainty. The proposed method concentrates on the selection of weapon systems. The method takes into account alternative generation, aspiration levels, and uncertainty regarding state of nature. An implementation of the method is presented in this paper.

2) Capital Investment with Multiple-Choice Requirement, Edward Y H Lin / Univ of New Brunswick, Faculty of Administration, Fredericton, N.B., E3B 5A3, Canada Several multiple choice programming problems useful to model various types of capital investments under different conditions are identified. These problems can be considered as the variants of multiple-choice knapsack problem. Efficient solution approach towards each type of the problem is presented based on a broad literature review and study.

3) Implementing Multicriteria Resource Allocation Model in Public Organizations, David Ho / Ryerson Polytechnic Univ, School of Admin & Info Mgmt, 350 Victoria St, Toronto Ontario, M5B 2K3, Canada, Dan Chai / Ontario Hydro Tech, 800 Kipling Av, Toronto, Ontario, M8Z 5S4, Canada This paper discusses the implementation of a multicriteria decision model in Ontario Hydro, the electric utility serving the Province of Ontario. The model, which employs ordinal data, is suited for resource allocation in the presence of a large number of alternatives and fuzzy criteria, which are typical of public organizations.

4) The Process of Multiple Criteria Decision Making: A Case Study of Procuring Weapon Systems, Shinn Sun / Univ of New South Wales, Dept of Comp Sci, Univ College, Adfa, Canberra Act 2600, Australia We investigate the process of how a defence community makes weapon procurement decisions to develop a decision-aiding method for the evaluation and selection of weapon systems. In this study, we conduct the field study, the questionnaire surveys, and the interviews to obtain a better understanding of the decision-makers' thought processes when engaged in making the decisions. Many interesting conclusions regarding the information to enhance the design and development of a methodology for the evaluation and selection of weapon systems emerged.

5) A Multiobjective Faculty Course Assignment Model, Adli Mustafa / Univ Sains Malaysia, Sch of Mathematics Sci, 11800 Penang, Malaysia, Mark Goh / Natl Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Adm, 10 Kent Ridge, Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore This paper describes a network-based multiobjective faculty course assignment model and the implementation of the model using a readily available user-friendly package called DINAS (Dynamic Interactive Network Analysis System). The conflicting objectives of entertaining the faculty course preferences with the consideration of the faculty course effectiveness as well as the faculty members request for a free from teaching semester are suggested for use. Several aspects on the use of DINAS as a solution tool are discussed.

1) Bayesian Adaptive Maintenance Plans Using Initial Expert Reliability Estimates, Khalid Aboura / C S I R O, Div of Maths & Stats, Private Bag No. 2, Glen Osmond Sth, 5064, Australia Informed judgement consisting of reliability estimates is used to assess prior distributions for the parameters of the Weibull and Generalized Gamma models. The approach is used to initiate adaptive maintenance plans in large scale structures. Examples are the replacement of light bulbs in city streets and large department stores.

2) Detection and Isolaton of Small Malfunctions in Complex Stochastic Systems, Zvi Covaliu / George Washington Univ, Mgmt Sci Dept, Washington, DC 20052, USA We describe a state-space algorithm for isolating small process and measurement malfunctions in complex linear, stochastic systems, and an application to a nuclear power plant model. The algorithm, based on binary residuals, is fast, sensitive, accurate, and has low false-alarm rate for a broad range of malfunctions. A comparison with Bayesian methods is made.

3) Optimal Stopping Rules for Software Testing, Refik Soyer / George Washington Univ, Dept of Mgmt Sci, Monroe Hall 402, Washington, DC 20052, USA We address the problem of when to terminate the testing/modificaton process and to release the software during the development phase. We present a Bayesian decision theoretic approach by formulating the problem as a sequential decision problem. By using a nonGaussian Kalman filter type of model to track software reliability, we are able to obtain tractable expressions for inference and determine a one-stage look ahead stopping rule.

4) A Generalized Block Replacement Policy of a System Subject to Shocks, Shey-Huei Sheu / Natl Taiwan Inst of Technology, Dept of Industrial Mgt, Taipei Taiwan, Rep of China A generalization of the block replacement policy (BRP) is proposed and analysed for a system subject to shocks. Under such a policy an operating system is preventively replaced at times kT (k = 1, 2, 3..) as in the ordinary BRP, and the replacement of the failed system at failure is not mandatory; instead, a minimal repair to the system can be made. The choice of these two possible actions is based on some random mechanism which depends on the number of repairs since the last replacement. The aim of this paper is to derive the expected long-run cost per unit time and find the optimal block interval T| which minimizes the expected long-run cost per unit time of the policy under certain conditions.

Wednesday 08:00-09:15

1) Reusing Legacy Models in DSS for Environmental Management, D.J. Abel / Csiro Div. of Info Tech, GPO Box 664, Canberra Act 2601, Australia, J. Richard Davis / Csiro Div of Water Resources, GPO Box 1666, Canberra Act 2601, Australia Decision making in environmental management frequently requires use of complex models of the physical processes, so that reuse of established models is attractive. An architecture for DSS supporting reuse of modelling systems is described. A DSS for water quality management in Sydney rivers is used as a case study.

2) A Multiobjective Charity Fund Distribution Model, Talal Al Khamis / Kuwait Univ, P.O. Box 5969, Safat, 13060, Kuwait, Muzaffar Shaikh / Florida Tech, Sch of Business, 150 West University Blvd., Melbourne, FL 32901-6988, USA This paper discusses a multiobjective planning model that determines the optimal distribution of charity funds collected at a governmental charity insitution. The model uses Linear Goal Programming (LGP) to simultaneously satisfy a number of goals of the charity institution while proposing the distribution to different types of recipients represented as variables in the model. The model's use is illustrated by its actual application to the Al-Zakat or the Charity House in Kuwait.

3) The Evolving Sectoral Structure of Employment in Hong Kong: A Markovian Approach, Ira Horowitz / Univ of Florida, D I S, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA The shifts in private-sector employment in Hong Kong over the past two decades are hypothesized to have resulted from a Markov process wherein jobs move among industries with fixed probabilities that may be estimated from aggregate time-series data: The implications of the results are derived from the well-known properties of a Markov process. It may be inferred that absent a public-policy mandate from a China-influenced successor to Hong Kong's laissez faire government, manufacturing will essentially disappear from the territory by 2025.

4) Productivity vs. Office Staff Size in Government Agencies, Stephen J. Huxley / Univ of San Francisco, Mclaren School of Bus, 2130 Fulton Av, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA The California State Government maintained 19 field offices throughout the state with an average of 4.3 workers each. Top level management wondered if fewer, larger offices would be more productive. This paper demonstrates how quantifying the links between productivity and office size helped resolve the issue.

1) Hedging with Futures Contracts: The Effect of Autocorrelation in the Basics, Eric Terry / Nat'l Univ of Singapore, Fac of Bus Admin, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore Conventional methods of hedging with futures contracts focus solely on the contemporaneous correlation between futures and spot prices. In general, however, arbitrage forces will cause the futures basis to be autocorrelated and so the conventional hedge will be inefficient. We derive a general formula for the optimal risk-minimizing hedge and compare its efficiency with that of the conventional hedge under several scenarios.

2) Autocorrelation Structures in Spots, Jayaram Muthuswamy / Finance & Banking N U S, 10 Kent Ridge Crescent, Singapore, 0511, Singapore

3) Neural Network Models for Predicting Nikkei & Eurodollar Interest Rate Future Prices, Wong Yue-Kee / Not Available.

4) A Model for Selecting Actively Traded Call Options, Daniel F S Choi / Hong Kong Baptist Univ, 224 Waterloo Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong Many call options are thinly traded. Call option trading volume is not always available. This paper develops a model for selecting actively traded call options. The model implies that slightly out-of-the-money call options are actively traded, while long-lived call options are less actively traded.

1) Dynamic Routing Under Uncertain Travel Times, Raymond K. Cheung / Iowa State Univ, I M S E Dept, 205 Engineering Annex, Ames, IA 50011, USA, B. Muralidharan / Iowa State Univ, I M S E Dept, 205 Engineering Annex, Ames, IA 50011, USA We consider finding the expected travel time for routing a vehicle through a transportation network where (

1) travel times are discrete random variables and (

2) re-routing is allowed when travel times are realized dynamically. Efficient algorithms are presented for obtaining the exact expected travel time.

2) A Pricing Strategy for the Capacitated Freight Distribution Firms in a Competitive Market, Cheng-Chang Lin / Nat'l Cheng Kung Univ, Dept of Trans Mgt Sci, Taiwan, Rep of China In addition to operating more efficiently, the freight distribution firm may use pricing as a strategy to generate higher revenue. This strategy is yet to be widely studied. We will present a mathematical model, representing the carrier's pricing problem in a competitive market, and an algorithm with a numerical example.

1) Reconfigurable Telecommunication Network Planning by Integer Programming, Heesang Lee / Korea Telecom Networks Res Labs, 17, Woomyun-Dong, Sucho-Gu, Seoul, Korea, Sungsoo Park / K A I S T, Dept of I E, 373-1 Gusong-Dong, Yusang-Gu, Taejon, Korea, Yun Bae Kim / Korea Telecom Networks Res Lab, 17 Woomyun-Dong, Sucho-Gu, Seoul, Korea In this study we analyze the telecommunication network survivability by considering layered network structure. For each layer we develop suitable evaluation and/or decision models by studying the characteristics of each network layer. Our computational experiments show that this multilayer approach is very efficient.

2) Optimal Solutions to a Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation Scheme for ATM Networks, Tao Yang / Tech Univ of Nova Scotia, Dept of Ind Engr, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 2X4, Canada, Jun Yei / Bell Northern Research, Ltd, Ottawa, ON, Canada We examine a dynamic bandwidth allocation scheme for an ATM multiplexer loaded with heterogeneous sources. We formulate this as a nonlinear optimization problem. Based on the special properties of cell loss probabilities, we determine optimality conditions and propose an algorithm for computing the optimal allocation scheme for any given traffic scenario.

3) Establishment of Virtual Paths for ATM Networks: Modeling and Algorithm, Jong-Hyuk Ju / Seoul Nat'l Univ, Dept. of Ind Eng, 56 Silim-Dong, Kwanak-Gu, Seoul, Korea, Sung-Pil Hong / Chung-Ang Univ, Dept of Mgmt, Ansung, Kyunggi-Do, Korea, Sung-Jin Chung / Seoul Nat'l Univ, Dept. of Ind Eng, 56 Silim-Dong, Kwanak-Gu, Seoul, Korea In ATM networks, ATM cells are transported via Virtual Path Connections (VPCs) which provide a logical path network. By the optimal establishment of VPCs, the network performance can be enhanced. We formulated the problem establishing VP network as a mathematical programming model and present its algorithm and some numerical results to demonstrate the effectiveness of the logical VP network.

4) An Object-oriented Approach for Simulation Modeling in B-ISDN, Youngok Rhee / Dacom Corp/R&D Center, 34 Kajeong-Dong, Yuseong-Gu, Taejon, 305350, S. Korea, Sung Joo Park / K A I S T, Dept of Mgt Science, Kuson-Dong, Yuseong-Gu, Taejon, 305-701, Korea, Jin Young Park / K A I S T, Dept of Mgt Science, Kusong-Dong, Yuseong-Gu, Taejon, 305-701, Korea An object-oriented (oo) approach for simulation modeling of B-ISDN is presented. The oo model consists of object model and behavior model. Network components and traffic components are specified as objects. Behavior model is represented with timed state diagrams.

5) Network Integrity vs. Service Diversity, Fu-Lin Wu / Bell Communication Research, 444 Hoes Ln, R R C-4 D 352, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA For the past decade, SS7 has provided a solid platform for the conventional network services. However, to continue meeting today's and tomorrow's telecommunication needs, it must address the issues of database synchronization, distributed processing, service creation, user programmerability, seamless integration of services across wireless and wireless networks, broadband services, O A & M.

1) Problem Specification in Constraint Logic Programming and Integer Programming, J.M. Wilson / Loughbourough Univ, Business School, Ashby Rd, Loughborough, Leicestershire, Le11 3Tu, England The new tool of constraint logic programming provides a way to specify and solve many traditional combinatorial operational research problems such as scheduling problems. Constraint logic programming will be reviewed and interconnections via logic between constraint logic programming and integer programming will be established. Connections in both formulation (specification) approaches and solution techniques, such as branch and bound will be explored.

2) An Application of Vehicle Scheduling in the Water Industry, E Hadjiconstantinou / Imperial College, Ctr For Quant Finance, Exhibition Rd, London Sw7 2Bx, United Kingdom, R Khalid / Imperial College, The Mgt Sch/53 Prince's Gate, Exhibition Rd, London Sw7 2Pg, United Kingdom An important problem in the water industry is the routing and scheduling of orders from customer to customer in an optimal way so as to minimize time delays and operating costs. We will describe an application of a vehicle routing system in planning and scheduling priorities for routine maintenance operations in the water industry. Preliminary results of applying this system will be presented for a pilot study.

1) Telecommuting for Information Workers: Task Suitability and Management Issues, Marybeth Watson Fritz / Georgia Inst of Tech, Sch of Mgt, Atlanta, GA 30332-0520, USA, Sridhar Narasimhan / Georgia Inst of Tech, Sch of Mgt, Atlanta, GA 30332-0520, USA, Hyeun-Suk (Sue) Rhee / Georgia Inst of Tech, Sch of Mgt, Atlanta, GA 30332-0520, USA Productivity increases seem to occur when telecommuting programs for information workers are introduced. We explore the factors that are impacted by telecommuting such as task attributes, job satisfaction, individual characteristics, and how the manager and workers communicate. We study possible group tasks in a telecommuting environment, and explore relevant contigencies.

2) Theoretical Approaches to IS Implementation: A Case Study Analysis,