Management Sciences in an Underdeveloped Country: The Case of Operations Research in Peru

Abstract

This paper examines the development of management sciences in Peru, with particular reference to the introduction and diffusion of operations research in the 1960's. The reactions of government officials and executives in private industry to management science are analyzed. The educational and institutional aspects of the future of OR are also examined. The paper ends with a discussion of the methodological aspects of operations research work in underdeveloped countries.