Solution of the personnel classification problem with the method of optimal regions

The personnel classification problem is identified mathematically with other problems in the social and biological sciences. This mathematical problem is shown to be a special case of the general mathematical problem of linear programming. It is proposed here that the personnel classification problem may be solved directly by methods particularly appropriate to it as well as by the simplex method, which is a standard method for solving the general linear programming problem. The method of optimal regions is derived and illustrated in this paper.Much of the basic research covered in this paper was carried out while the author was working on the problem of personnel classification in his capacity as Consultant, Personnel Research Branch, Adjutant General's Office, Department of the Army. Some of the material was presented in a conference which was held at Personnel Research Branch in August, 1952. The author wishes to express his appreciation to the Department of the Army for permission to use these materials in this paper. The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not to be construed as official or as those of the Department of the Army.