The Pits of OR/MS and Gamesmanship to Skirt the Rim

The implementation of OR/MS techniques and methodologies requires a profound knowledge of systems, mathematics, and numerous other disciplines which lend themselves to the particular problem at hand. In most academic endeavors the burgeoning analyst is barraged with analytical complexities considered pertinent in attacking relevant OR/MS problems. Unfortunately, this acquired knowledge is normally lacking a major ingredient paramount to most successful applications. This skill is left to assimilation through years of “Trial by ordeal” vs formal training. Specifically, we speak of that segment of our profession unrelated to our analytical capabilities but dealing with the recognition of human behavior or organizational interactions and the associated practicality of complex analytical tools. Five such “pits” and their implications are discussed, along with the basic nature of pit excavation. The opinions and material presented herein are those of the authors and are detached from any organizations to which they are or have been associated.