History of The OR Society

The Operational Research Society (ORS) in the United Kingdom traces its origins to the significant contributions made during World War II. Operational research (OR) emerged as a critical field during the war, where scientists and military experts applied analytical methods to improve decision-making and efficiency in military operations. This pioneering work laid the foundation for the establishment of the ORS.

Formation

In 1948, the Operational Research Society was officially founded, marking the formal recognition of operational research as a professional discipline. The society aimed to promote the study and application of OR techniques across various sectors, including industry, government, and academia. The founding members included leading figures from wartime OR groups who recognised the value of continuing their work in peacetime.

Growth and Development

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the ORS experienced significant growth. The society organised conferences, workshops, and seminars to disseminate knowledge and foster collaboration among OR professionals. The publication of the "Journal of the Operational Research Society" provided a platform for sharing research findings and advancements in the field.

Influence and Impact

By the 1970s, the ORS had established itself as a key player in the global OR community. The society's efforts contributed to the widespread adoption of OR techniques in various industries, including manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and finance. The ORS also played a crucial role in the development of OR education, advocating for the inclusion of OR courses in university curricula and supporting the training of future OR professionals.

Modern Era

In recent decades, The OR Society (ORS) has evolved by adopting new technologies and methodologies. By leveraging digital platforms, the ORS has broadened its reach, enhancing access to a wealth of OR resources and networking opportunities. The society is dedicated to advancing operational research, promoting best practices, and fostering continuous innovation.

Achievements and Recognition

The Operational Research Society has achieved numerous milestones over the years. These include the establishment of various awards and honors to recognise outstanding contributions to the field, such as the Beale Medal and the President's Medal. The society's members have been at the forefront of solving complex problems and improving decision-making processes across diverse sectors.

A global movement

By 1955, interest in operational research had spread to most Western countries. Membership levels grew steadily, from the original fifty to around 1,250 members in 1964. Today, The OR Society boasts over 4,000+ members, including academics, practitioners, and students, all benefiting from a wealth of resources, publications, training, and networking opportunities in operational research.

Defining the Field

In October 1941, Professor Patrick Blackett provided what many consider to be the original definition of operational research:

"The object of having scientists in close touch with operations is to enable operational staffs to obtain scientific advice on those matters which are not handled by the service technical establishments... Operational staff provide the scientists with the operational outlook and data. The scientists apply scientific methods of analysis to this data, and are thus able to give useful advice. The main field of their activity is clearly the analysis of actual operations, using as data the material to be found in an operations room, e.g. all signals, track charts, combat reports, meteorological information, etc..."

In 1947, American physicist Charles Kittel described OR as:

"Operations Research is a scientific method for providing executive departments with a quantitative basis for decisions."

A year later, Sir Charles Goodeve summed it up as "quantitative common-sense." By 1962, the definition had been expanded to:

"Operational Research is the attack of modern science on complex problems arising in the direction and management of large systems of men, machines, material and money in industry, business, government and defence..."

 
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Our 'Draw My Life' animation about Lord Patrick Blackett, a true pioneer of Operational Research.

Nowadays, The OR Society avoids formal definitions, preferring to illustrate what OR does by means of examples.

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Looking Forward

As the field of operational research continues to evolve, the ORS is poised to remain a leader in promoting the value of OR in addressing contemporary challenges. The society is dedicated to fostering a vibrant community of OR professionals, encouraging collaboration, and driving the advancement of operational research for the benefit of society.

Inside OR is the society's monthly OR magazine, carrying news, features on OR methods, personalities and events, debate and a comprehensive noticeboard section providing information on what's happening in the OR world. The Journal of the Operational Research Society is internationally respected.

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History of OR - Our Origin Story