What would humans have to do with the MILP cost functions to improve their productivity? To convert the output of an MILP cost function into actual, real-world productivity improvements, humans must act as the translators and strategy drivers.
- Deconstruct the Cost Function (Identify Where “Leaks” Live). Humans must dissect the cost function components to see where money and time are being inefficiently consumed.
- Formulate “What-If” Hypotheses (Opening Up Decision Variables). Since the static “as-is” model cannot suggest new options on its own, humans must design new operational scenarios for the model to evaluate.
- Translate Mathematical Insights into Physical/Process Actions. Once the scenario runs show potential cost savings, humans must take the quantitative results and turn them into physical operational changes on the floor.