Assets to Optimize

Optimization improves decision making about assets -- meaning anything of value the business exercizes some control over.

Here are types of assets that we have found generate high value in optimization. In reading more about the cases, you’ll see that each business was optimizing more than one type of asset. In examining these cases, consider as well the multiple decision types and optimization challenges.

Optimization has great potential, which is actualized only if the optimizers can accurately model the complete problem domain.

For an optimizer, assets are governed by rules and constraints: physical, regulatory, contractual, marketplace, policy, and practical.

People

Employees, vendors, customers, shoppers

Raw Materials

Raw materials, components, finished goods

Containers

Storage or shipping containers, shelf space

Vehicles

Trucks, planes, trains, ships, manufacturing equipment

Land

Farms, distribution centers, transit points

Finances/Investments

Capital funds, investment portfolios

Digital & Other Intangibles

Web space, TV/radio time, intellectual property