Operational researcher: Job description

Operational researchers make use of analytical and creative skills to assist organisations in developing better systems and operational procedures.

They examine an organisation's operations and use mathematical modelling, computer software or other analytical approaches to find more effective ways of working. They provide managers with the information they need to develop a strategic policy and make better decisions.

Operational research (OR), sometimes also known as management science, was developed in Britain during World War Two, when it was used to apply mathematical and scientific techniques to the planning of military operations. Today OR is used throughout industry, commerce and government services.

Typical work activities

Operational researchers use qualitative problem-structuring techniques and simulation and advanced quantitative methods for the purpose of:

• examining assumptions;
• facilitating an in-depth understanding of an organisation's operations;
• deciding on practical action;
• supporting the management of change;
• reviewing progress.

Tasks often involve:

• interviewing managers and staff;
• gathering relevant hard and soft data from systems and personnel at various levels within the organisation;
• defining the problem and the results sought;
• collecting and analysing data and developing models, often using spreadsheets, databases and pragmatic, numerical approaches to solve problems;
• using analytical methods, such as simulation, network analysis, decision analysis, multi-criteria analysis, scenario analysis, soft systems modelling, optimisation, game theory and queuing theory;
• using mathematical programming techniques, including linear programming;
• using statistical methods and testing hypotheses;
• identifying innovative and pragmatic solutions to clients' management problems and testing these solutions;
• feeding in results and helping to implement chosen options;
• compiling a report of findings and making presentations to clients, often requiring clear and persuasive explanation of complex processes to a non-technical audience.

During the life cycle of a project, communicating clearly with clients is vitally important in order to explain the progress and results of the work to them in non-technical language and to persuade them of the benefits of the recommended changes.

The OR Society produces a useful website, Learn About O.R. , which has more information about careers in the subject.