Research Reports from the Department of Operations

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

10-1-1969

Abstract

This article discusses the complexity of water resource systems and the interdisciplinary nature of addressing their associated challenges. It emphasizes the subjective nature of defining such systems, as perspectives differ across disciplines (engineering, economics, law, etc.) and geographical contexts (humid versus arid regions). Large-scale water resource problems, particularly multi-purpose regional systems, are characterized by their complexity, often requiring advanced analytical tools from systems engineering and operations research for optimal solutions. Key approaches to solving these large-scale problems include approximation, abstraction, and hierarchical or multilevel methods, each with distinct techniques for simplifying and coordinating system components. These methodologies help address complex issues such as reservoir management, pollution control, and regional water planning.

Keywords

Operations research, Water resources development--Planning, Water-supply engineering, Systems engineering, Reservoirs--Management, Water quality management, Environmental engineering

Publication Title

Technical Memorandums from the Department of Operations, School of Management, Case Western Reserve University

Issue

Technical memorandum no. 158

Rights

This work is in the public domain and may be freely downloaded for personal or academic use

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