OptQuest
OptQuest is an optimization software developed by OptTek Systems, Inc., used to tackle complex optimization problems through Simulation-based optimization. It primarily integrates with commercial simulation software to improve decision-making and optimization in scenarios characterized by stochastic behavior and complexity.
Underlying algorithms
Like other optimization packages and SBO products, OptQuest utilizes metaheuristic algorithms. Among them, OptQuest uses:OptQuest, like practically all software packages for simulation-based optimization, utilizes iterative heuristics and approaches the simulation model as a black box, meaning it only interacts with the model through its input and output data.
Software integration
OptQuest was initially released in 1998 as a spinout of the University of Colorado Boulder to be used with Crystal Ball simulation software. OptQuest is frequently used as a plugin with various commercial simulation software to provide optimization capabilities. These include:Simulation software ProModel integrates with optimization package SimRunner, which is based on genetic algorithms. Witness optimizer uses tabu search and simulated annealing algorithms.