Business Analytics, Optimization and Modeling

2025/2026

Учебный год

ENG

Обучение ведется на английском языке

3

Кредиты

Кто читает:

Департамент бизнес-информатики и операционного менеджмента

Статус:

Курс обязательный

Когда читается:

1-й курс, 3 модуль

Преподаватель

Горячев Александр Андреевич

Course Syllabus

Abstract

This course provides a comprehensive foundation in applying analytical methods to solve real business problems. Students will learn to translate complex business scenarios into mathematical models, optimize decisions using linear and integer programming, and evaluate outcomes through data-driven approaches. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, with hands-on experience in building and solving models using industry-leading systems. Key topics include problem formulation, sensitivity analysis, decision modeling under uncertainty, and the use of simulation techniques. Through individual and team-based projects, learners will develop the ability to derive actionable insights and support strategic decision-making in dynamic business environments.

Learning Objectives

• The aim of the course is to develop student competence in business analytics and optimization modeling by equipping them with a systematic, applied methodology for solving complex business problems.

Expected Learning Outcomes

• Knowledge of mathematical modelling basics (types, characteristics)
• Knowledge of problem types (transportation, investment, blending, etc.)
• Knowledge of linear programming optimization
• Knowledge of integer programming optimization
• Knowledge of solving methods and approaches for optimization models (simplex, branch and bound, etc.)
• Ability to formulate real business problems as mathematical models
• Practical knowledge of building models in Excel Solver
• Knowledge of building models in other world’s leading mathematical modelling systems (OpenSolver Python/PuLP, GAMS, AIMMS, Lindo, etc.)

Course Contents

• Introduction to Business Analytics
• Linear optimization
• Integer optimization
• Decision analysis

Assessment Elements

• Test 1
  An Excel-based test to check the understanding of the mathematical modelling basics.
• Test 2
  An Excel-based test to check the understanding of the mathematical modelling basics.
• Project
  Research project should be developed within teams (2-3 students) to analyze some real-world business problem and formulate it as an optimization model using Microsoft Excel Solver.
• Final Exam
  An Excel-based test to check the practical knowledge of building linear and integer optimization models. Similar to Test 2, but more complex assignments.

Interim Assessment

• 2025/2026 3rd module
  0.4 * Final Exam + 0.2 * Project + 0.2 * Test 1 + 0.2 * Test 2

Bibliography

Recommended Core Bibliography

• Business analytics, Evans, J. R., 2014

Recommended Additional Bibliography

• Spreadsheet modeling and decision analysis : a practical introduction to management science, Ragsdale, C. T., 2004

Authors

• Орлова Екатерина Дмитриевна