The Calhoun Textile Mill Case: An Exercise on the Significance of Linear Programming Model Formulation

Abstract We present a real-world problem that illustrates how different linear programming formulations allow different interpretations of solution results and sensitivity analyses. The problem involves the allocation of looms to weave various fabrics in a textile mill and the determination of which fabrics should be purchased outside of the mill in order to meet demand. The case has been used as a teaching tool for emphasizing often over-looked model formulation issues.