Operations Research II

Homework 2

Anil Kumar Vadlakonda

R01356784

1. A) Describe the difference between a means objective and a fundamental

objective.
It is very important to differentiate objectives into means objectives and
fundamental objectives. Fundamental objectives are the essential things we
want to achieve, whereas means objectives are things which help us in
achieving the fundamental objectives. Fundamental objectives are organized
into hierarchies while means objectives are organized into networks. In the
Maximize Safety example discussed in class, maximizing use of safety
feature is a means objective because it helps to achieve the fundamental
objective of minimizing life loss.
B) Explain why we focus on determining attribute scales to measure
accomplishment of fundamental objectives but not means objectives.
We focus on determining attribute scales to measure achievements of
fundamental objectives but not means objectives, because we want to know
how a consequence stacks up in terms of the things we want to achieve.
C) Why should a decision maker know her means objectives??
It is very crucial for a decision maker to know how to separate means
objectives from fundamental objectives. It is important because, decision
maker by knowing means objectives can identify what fundamental
objectives are, and so that he/she knows what to measure and how to
achieve.
2. Suppose you are attending college and that you want to rent an apartment.
What are your fundamental and means objectives?
Objectives change from person to person. According to me, fundamental
objectives and means objectives for renting an apartment near college are as
follows.
Fundamental objectives are usually organized in hierarchies, hence below
hierarchy diagram explains my fundamental objectives.

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Operations Research II

Homework 2

Anil Kumar Vadlakonda

R01356784

Good
Apartment

Maximize
Surrounding
Ambience

Maximize
Use of time

Good
Neighbourho
od

More time
with Family,
Friends and
Study

Minimize
Travel time

Close to
College

Close to
stores and
shopping
malls

Close to
leisure time
activities

Minimize
Cost

Means objectives are usually organized in networks, hence below network

diagram explains my m objectives.
Good Apartment

Centrall
y
Locate
Minimiz
e rent

Low
cost

Pollution free and

good ventilation

Savings
on
parking

Safe and close to

friends

Savin
gs on
gas

3. Suppose that you are working on a research project. Draw a diagram that
shows the hierarchy of the fundamental objectives. Show at least two levels.
Describe the diagram briefly. Show a network of means objectives. Again,
describe the project in one or two paragraphs?
Although every research study has its own specific objectives, fundamental
objectives may be broadly grouped as follows:Research Project

Maximize
knowledge

Literature study

Maximize
Experimenting

Analayse and
Interpret

Maximize
accuracy

Rectify
drawbacks and
errors

Internet research

Research is an addition to the available knowledge, which contributes to its

further advancement. It is an attempt to pursue truth through the methods of
study, observation, comparison and experiment. In sum, research is the
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Operations Research II

Homework 2

Anil Kumar Vadlakonda

R01356784

search for knowledge, using objective and systematic methods to find

solution to a problem.

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