MIS40550 Network Software Modelling

Academic Year 2016/2017

The topic of this module is networks, known in mathematics as graphs. Graphs arise in analytics applications
including transport, communications and planning problems, and modelling of social networks.

The module will introduce the mathematics of graphs, but will also describe applications in some detail and implementation details. We will write our own graph algorithms and learn to use existing open-source libraries of graph code.

Keywords: graphs, networks, trees; minimum spanning tree; shortest path; tours; PERT/CPM, critical path; search and traversal of graphs; data structures; social networks; Python Networkx; Java Gephi.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completing this course, you should be able to:

- Describe the mathematical properties of network models;
- Outline the main principles of mathematical and computer modelling as they apply to network optimisation problems arising in business;
- Explain the details of a key subset of algorithms and data types for minimal spanning tree and shortest path finding, PERT/CPM project analysis, tree/graph searching, and network tour generation and optimisation;
- Implement important network algorithms in computer code and use existing libraries;
- Discuss some important applications of Network Models in business;
- Apply all of these ideas to realistic example problems.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

36

Tutorial

12

Specified Learning Activities

50

Autonomous Student Learning

72

Total

170

 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations
Learning Requirements:

Before doing this course you will need to have achieved a basic level in a range of mathematics
and computer applications, including an introduction to algorithms, and exposure to object oriented programming methods.

The MSc(BA)/MSc(QF) courses Quantitative Methods and Numerical Analytics and Software will bring you to this level.

Learning Recommendations:

The MSc(BA)/MSc(QF) courses Quantitative Methods and Numerical Analytics and Software are recommended, as they will bring you to the required level.



 
Description % of Final Grade Timing
Examination: Final exam

60

2 hour End of Trimester Exam
Assignment: Programming Assignment

25

Week 9
Assignment: Graph exercises

15

Week 6

Compensation

This module is not passable by compensation

Resit Opportunities

End of Semester Exam

Remediation

If you fail this module you may repeat, resit or substitute where permissible

Name Role
Baibing Li Tutor