Sensitivity Analysis and Linear Programming Using MAPLE, DERIVE, and the TI-82

Susan Lenker

Central Michigan University
Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859
USA

Dorothy Anway

College of Saint Scholastica
Duluth, MN 55811
USA

Susan McLoughlin

Union County College
Cranford, NJ 07016
USA

ABSTRACT

Most colleges spend a great many hours teaching business students how to perform the mechanics of linear programming with only a little time spent on the interpretation and analysis of some very simple, very contrived examples. With the aid of existing technology, more time can be spent on more meaningful examples to answer the 'what if' type of questions. This handout/demonstration shows how to use MAPLE, DERIVE, and the TI-82 to solve linear programming problems and also a sample lab that demonstrates how the student can discover the meaning of sensitivity analysis through various 'what if' questions.

Keyword(s): linear programming, Maple, Derive, TI-82