The three-day workshop focused on the application of Excel in solving managerial decision problems using Linear Programming Problem (LPP), Transportation Problem, and Assignment Problem. Students were introduced to the foundational concepts of these models, followed by hands-on training on formulating and solving them using Excel functions and the Solver add-in.

On Day 1, the session began with an introduction to Linear Programming, including its real-life applications in operations and resource optimization. Participants learned how to frame decision variables, write constraints, and define objective functions. This was followed by step-by-step demonstrations of solving LPPs in Excel using the Solver tool.

Day 2 focused on the Transportation Problem. Students practiced methods like the North-West Corner Rule, Least Cost Method, and Vogel’s Approximation Method for initial feasible solutions, and then optimized the transportation cost using Excel-based analysis. Emphasis was given to understanding supply-demand balance and cost minimization.

On Day 3, the workshop concluded with the Assignment Problem, which involved optimally assigning tasks to resources at minimal cost. Dr. Gurpreet Kaur guided students through formulating the problem in matrix form and using Excel Solver to find optimal assignments. Real-life business scenarios were used to contextualize learning and improve comprehension.

The workshop was interactive, practice-oriented, and well-received by students. It helped bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and real-world application of quantitative models. Students appreciated the hands-on approach and expressed greater confidence in using Excel as a decision-support tool.

The participants were enthusiastically involved. Such workshops play a crucial role in equipping future managers with the essential analytical skills necessary for effective decision-making. This workshop served as a bridge between theoretical and practical knowledge.