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operational-research-crisis
A recognized paradigm crisis in operational research marked by critiques of its traditional methods and calls for reform or revolution.
1 chapter across 1 book
Rational Analysis for a Problematic World: Problem Structuring Methods for Complexity, Uncertainty and Conflict (1989)Jonathan Rosenhead
Pages 19–25
The chapter critiques traditional operational research (OR) methods for their limitations in addressing complex, strategic problems characterized by uncertainty, ill-defined parameters, and shifting objectives. It highlights a paradigm crisis in OR, contrasting its success in tactical, well-structured problems with its failure in strategic contexts, and introduces new problem structuring methods that emphasize partial structuring and stakeholder participation to better manage complexity and conflict in decision-making.