Operational research in Defra

Operational Research (OR) is the discipline of applying advanced analytical and problem-structuring methods to help make better decisions. It aims to provide a rational basis for decision-making, by understanding and structuring complex situations. Often this involves building mathematical models to predict system behaviour and thereby assist the planning of changes to the system.

OR has been used within Defra to:

Inform the Farm Regulation and Charging Strategy by analysing the cumulative effect of regulations on the income and viability of farm businesses.
Estimate the likely farm-level effects of various farm regulations, providing evidence for Regulatory Impact Assessments.
Develop model-based approaches to help forecast the Total Income From Farming (TIFF) for the next five years.
Provide policy-makers with assessment of the financial impact on farms of CAP Reform, voluntary modulation and agri-environment schemes.
Prepare evidence for Ministerial briefings on various farm-related topics.

The OR team within Defra is part of the Government Operational Research Service (GORS).

More information on Operational Research is available from the OR Society.

Page last modified: 9 June, 2007
Page published: 9 June, 2007