Quantifying Flexibility in Sequential Decision Making: Helping Commanders Assess Flexibility in Planning
Abstract
In this work, we have explored the joint issues of 1) how to characterize flexibility for use in quantifying the value of decision alternatives, and 2) whether decision making methodologies incorporating parameters relevant to flexibility can be applied effectively in practical decision-making contexts. We have studied these issues in the context of complex multi-criteria planning tasks including military course of action planning, asset allocation and aviation scheduling. We have found that while providing some flexibility provides better performance, providing more flexibility (3 plus options) is not necessarily better than a little flexibility (2 to 3 options). Additionally, the configuration of assets can have a large impact on their cost and performance. These findings have significance for how the military can achieve high performance in courses of actions and in logistical support at relatively low cost.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA456591
Entities
People
- Caroline Hayes
- Saif Benjaafar
Organizations
- University of Minnesota