What are the latest trends in operations research, and how can you keep your skills and knowledge up to date?

1 Data science and machine learning

One of the most prominent trends in OR is the integration of data science and machine learning techniques to enhance the quality and efficiency of decision making. Data science is the process of extracting insights and knowledge from large and diverse data sets, using various tools and methods such as statistics, visualization, and programming. Machine learning is a subset of data science that focuses on creating algorithms and systems that can learn from data and improve their performance over time. By combining data science and machine learning with OR, you can leverage the power of data to optimize complex systems, discover hidden patterns, and generate novel solutions.

2 Sustainable and social OR

Another trend in OR is the growing attention to sustainability and social responsibility in problem solving. Sustainable OR is the application of OR to support environmental, economic, and social goals, such as reducing waste, emissions, and costs, while improving resource efficiency, quality, and equity. Social OR is the application of OR to address social issues and challenges, such as poverty, health, education, and justice, while involving and empowering stakeholders and communities. By adopting sustainable and social OR, you can contribute to the global efforts to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and make a positive impact on society.

3 Simulation and gaming

A third trend in OR is the increasing use of simulation and gaming to model, analyze, and improve complex systems and processes. Simulation is the technique of creating a virtual representation of a real system or scenario, and experimenting with different parameters, inputs, and outputs, to understand its behavior and performance. Gaming is the technique of creating a interactive and engaging environment, where participants can learn, explore, and experiment with different strategies, roles, and outcomes, to enhance their skills and knowledge. By using simulation and gaming in OR, you can test and validate your assumptions and models, explore various alternatives and scenarios, and communicate and collaborate with others.

4 Online learning and networking

A fourth trend in OR is the expanding opportunities for online learning and networking, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Online learning is the mode of acquiring knowledge and skills through digital platforms and resources, such as courses, webinars, podcasts, blogs, and books. Online networking is the mode of connecting and interacting with other professionals and experts in your field, through social media, forums, communities, and events. By engaging in online learning and networking, you can keep your skills and knowledge up to date, access the latest research and best practices, and expand your network and career prospects.

5 Soft skills and interdisciplinary collaboration

A fifth trend in OR is the rising demand for soft skills and interdisciplinary collaboration, as OR problems become more complex, dynamic, and uncertain. Soft skills are the non-technical skills that enable you to communicate, collaborate, and adapt effectively in different situations and contexts, such as critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. Interdisciplinary collaboration is the mode of working with people from different disciplines and backgrounds, to integrate and leverage diverse perspectives, expertise, and methods, to solve complex problems. By developing your soft skills and interdisciplinary collaboration, you can enhance your performance and productivity, foster innovation and learning, and increase your value and influence.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?