RE: Why random number?

["David Morris" <David.Morris@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Chris and ?,

Optimization is one area where random numbers are useful. When
local extremes exist in the solution space, it is not possible to move

directly to the best solution; in this case, some random solutions
have to be tested. In distribution, that might be figuring out a
reasonably efficient delivery route, and in manufacturing you
might want to know the optimal way to slice and dice a log or load
a truck.

David Morris


>>> chris.bipes@cross-check.com 09/17/02 10:31AM >>>
We here do on-line point of sale check approval.  We do NOT want our
customers guessing what the next approval number might be.  We don't
use
random numbers but jumble a sequential number by re-arranging the
digits.
It is enough so our customers do not see THE pattern.  Different
business
have different needs.  I have 10 year of manufacturing prior to coming
here
and never saw a need for random numbers in manufacturing.

Christopher K. Bipes      mailto:Chris.Bipes@Cross-Check.com

-----Original Message-----

I have a question I have been wanting to ask for a long time.

Every so often, the 'random number' thing comes up.  I have been in
programming for 27 years in the distribution business and never had
the
need for a random number.  I can't think of why I would ever want one.

At the risk of appearing incredibly stupid, why would a business
programmer need a random number?