The objective function is a function withsome variables on which the achievement of optimality directly depends. It can also act as several variables that characterize an object. It can be said that, in essence, it shows how we have advanced in achieving the set task.
An example of such functions can be the calculation of the strength and mass of the structure, installation capacity, production volume, transportation costs, and others.
The objective function allows you to answer several questions:
- it is profitable or not this or that event;
- whether in the right direction is going;
- how correct the choice is, etc.
If we are not able to influence the parametersfunctions, then, we can say that we can do nothing, except that we can only analyze everything. But in order to be able to change something, there are usually variable parameters of the function. The main task is to change the values to those at which the function becomes optimal.
Target functions may not always be represented.in the form of a formula. This may be a table, for example. Also, the condition can be in the form of several objective functions. For example, if you want to ensure maximum reliability, minimum cost and minimum consumption of materials.
Optimization tasks should have the most importantthe initial condition is the objective function. If we have not defined it, then we can assume that optimization does not exist. In other words, if there is no goal, then there are no ways to achieve it, and even more favorable conditions.
Optimization tasks are conditional andunconditional. The first type suggests limitations, that is, certain conditions when setting a task. The second type is to find the maximum or minimum of the function with the existing parameters. Often, such tasks involve finding a minimum.
In the classic understanding of the optimization are selectedsuch parameter values for which the objective function satisfies the desired results. It can also be described as the process of selecting the best option possible. For example, choose the best resource allocation, construction option, etc.
There is such a thing as incomplete optimization. It can be formed for several reasons. For example:
- the number of systems hit the maximum point is limited (a monopoly or oligopoly is already established);
- there is no monopoly, but there are no resources (lack of qualifications in any competition);
- the absence of the maximum point itself, or rather its “ignorance” (a man dreams of a certain beautiful woman, but it is not known whether such a thing exists in nature), etc.
In the conditions of market relations of sales managementand the production activities of firms and enterprises, the basis of decision-making is information about the market, and the validity of this decision is checked already when entering the market with the corresponding product or service. In this case, the starting point is to study consumer demand. To find solutions, a target consumption function is established. It shows the amount of consumed goods and the degree of satisfaction of consumer needs, as well as the relationship between them.
