ABSTRACT
An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure that fi nds a solution to a model, and hence to the problem, in a fi nite number of steps. In this Chapter and Chapter 8, we introduce algorithms and software that have been developed for the layout problem. Some have been in use for the past 30 years, whereas others are new and appear to be promising. To make the models amenable to solution by means of algorithms, we make a number of assumptions-some realistic and others unrealistic. For instance, the QAP discussed in Chapter 7 assumes the departments are square. Similarly, all but one of the models presented in Chapter 7 assume that material fl ow occurs between the centers of departments and the cost of moving a unit load is implicitly assumed to be proportional to the distance. These models are useful although many of these assumptions may not be realistic. The layout analyst has to be aware of the assumptions made in the models and use the solution generated by a corresponding algorithm with caution. It must be used only as a basis for generating solutions that can be applied in the real world (Apple, 1977). Thus, despite their assumptions, models provide the layout analyst with a mechanism to generate meaningful solutions that can be implemented in practice.
