Genetic Algorithms-a Tool for OR?

Compared with other metaheuristic techniques such as simulated annealing and tabu search, research into the use of genetic algorithms for the solution of OR problems is still in its infancy. This paper provides an introduction to genetic algorithms and their use in the solution of both classical and practical operational research problems, identifies some of the reasons why they have been slow to find widespread appeal, and goes on to show that many of these reasons are gradually being eroded.