The course is aimed to give the students the essential skills for developing linear (and sometimes nonlinear) mathematical programs with both continous and discrete variables, starting from the statement of a real-world problem, along with knowledge of the numerical algorithms used for solving such models.

1) Knowledge and understanding: the course introduces basic knowledge and techniques typical of Operations Research, with particular reference to the development of linear programming models, mixed whole linear programming. The optimization algorithms for linear programming with continuous variables are developed in detail (simplex, dual simplex).
2) Applying knowledge and understanding: the course devotes a significant amount of hours to the development of models that draw inspiration from real situations, both general and of a type more strictly related to problems of a business nature. Laboratory exercises are planned with the use of specific software.
3) Making judgments: the development of the models of the problems proposed to the course results in the implementation of the same by means of modeling languages, thus allowing the verification of the solutions developed by the students. Group activities are also encouraged, although not made compulsory, aimed at investigating specific issues.
4) Communication skills: students are proposed as an interpretation of the solutions obtained for the models studied, with particular reference to the mapping between the mathematical entities of the model and the actual modeled situation.
5) Learning skills: the course provides the student with basic tools to model and solve a wide range of problems with quantitative methods, both in the economic field and in other sectors. These skills are the basis for the prompt acquisition of more complex techniques and instruments and are also likely to be applied promptly in the workplace.