Xiucui Guan

This book offers as exploration into the emerging field of Inverse Combinatorial Optimization Problems (ICOPs), a transformative area within operations research. As traditional optimization focuses on maximizing or minimizing objectives under constraints, ICOPs reverse this process, allowing for the inference of hidden parameters from observed outcomes. This monograph provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and applying ICOPs across various domains. Key concepts such as inverse shortest path, spanning tree, and center location problems are meticulously examined, offering theoretical insights and algorithmic solutions. The authors present a structured approach to these complex problems, making this work an essential resource for both academic and practical applications. By addressing critical questions and providing algorithmic tools, this book is a must-read for those seeking to enhance network design, logistics, and strategic planning. Researchers, academics, and practitioners in operations research and management science will find this monograph invaluable. It not only contributes to academic discourse but also equips professionals with the knowledge to tackle real-world challenges. This book is a vital addition to any library supporting advanced studies in optimization and decision-making processes.