Interactive metaheuristics for optimization-based decision support systems

• Applicant: Dr. David Meignan
• Subject Area: Image and Language Processing, Computer Graphics and Visualisation, Human Computer Interaction, Ubiquitous and Wearable Computing
• Term: from 2013 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 232337356

This research intends to support the integration of metaheuristics in real applications by considering these optimization methods in an interactive context. In spite of the fact that metaheuristics have been proven to be successful as real problem solvers in a variety of application areas, several limitations restrain the use of metaheuristics in decision support systems. First, some strategic parameters are difficult to set without knowledge about real instances to solve. Second, the problem model may underestimate or ignore some aspect of the problem. Finally, the user of the decision support system may distrust the solutions provided by the metaheuristic. These obstacles to a practical use of metaheuristics in decision support systems may be overcome by taking advantage of human expertise during the solving process. In this context, the research project will investigate interactive metaheuristics. In this original approach of metaheuristics, the interaction with the user aims at guiding the search process, enriching the problem model, involving and informing the user on the decisions taken by the optimization process. The main goal of the project is to develop new models, algorithms and software solutions for the design of interactive metaheuristics for decision support systems.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants