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Analyzing Data Using Goal Seek and Solver 37
FIGURE 37.11
This worksheet determines the least expensive way to ship products from warehouses to retail outlets.
Before you solve this problem with Solver, you may want to attempt to solve this problem
manually, by entering values in D12:F17 that minimize the shipping costs. And, of course, you
need to make sure that all the constraints are met. Doing so may help you better appreciate Solver.
NOTE
Setting up the problem is the difficult part. For example, you must enter 27 constraints. When you have
specified all the necessary information, click the Solve button to put Solver to work. Solver displays the
solution shown in Figure 37.12.
The total shipping cost is $55,515, and all the constraints are met. Notice that shipments to Miami come
from both St. Louis and Boston.
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