INFORMS News: Position Statement: Ariela Sofer

Ariela Sofer

This is an encouraging time for INFORMS. Thanks to prudent steps taken by the Board and staff, INFORMS has emerged from the economic downturn in a relatively strong position. The financial situation is back on solid ground following a rocky couple of years. Meeting attendance is up. Membership is on the rise and publications remain strong.

This is also a pivotal time for INFORMS. For the past few months the Board has been focusing on strategic planning and will continue to do so through this year. The Board has already decided on long-range, forward-looking strategic goals that will energize the organization in the years ahead and has agreed on strategic priorities or initiatives for each of these goals. The next INFORMS president would need to carefully shepherd these initiatives through their successful implementation, keeping an ever watchful eye on schedule, performance and all financial aspects. As president – if elected – I will make this a top priority. I will also work with the Board and staff in soliciting input from the membership, assessing success and revising the goals if necessary.

To the specifics: The Board embarked last fall on a bold thrust for advancing the INFORMS “analytics goal.” Strategic priorities for this goal include the development and implementation of a program for certification of analytic professionals and a continuing education program. This is an enterprising initiative that, if successful, will further cement INFORMS’ reputation as the leading association for advanced analytics professionals. But it is also a long-term initiative that carries with it risks.

Factors such as the organizational structure of the certification, timely development of the program, the business model, marketing and demand, and the actual investment needed will all have significant financial implications for INFORMS and might even impact INFORMS’ reputation. Strong program management is therefore a must. We are fortunate to have an outstanding Task Force working on this endeavor. Nevertheless, as president I would dedicate much of my focus to this initiative and work closely with the Task Force, the Board and the staff to continuously assess the progress and viability of the initiative, and to ensure its full success.

The Board has also embarked on an IT infrastructure initiative that would provide up-to-date online systems that enable collaboration and effective exchange of information, including use of social media to enhance member services. This again is an important yet complex endeavor, and I will work closely with the IT Committee to ensure successful implementation.

I relish also the opportunity to work on the Board’s third initiative, to develop external engagement with government and industry, an activity I have been involved in extensively in my position as department chair.

As president I will also make it a priority to ensure the broad and diverse character of INFORMS. While the new analytics thrust is a vital focus of INFORMS, it is only one aspect of the wide range of activities of INFORMS. Whether you view your primary focus as operations research, management science or analytics, I will work to assure that INFORMS is your professional home. Whether you are an academic, practitioner or student, and whatever your global location, INFORMS is your home.

The breadth of the INFORMS membership will continue to be reflected in activities such as the annual conference, topical and regional conferences and communications. Subdivisions are a great avenue for developing our individual interests. Subdivisions are the lifeblood of INFORMS and my special passion. I will continue to work to see them prosper and flourish and expand in exciting, emerging areas.
I believe I am well prepared for the challenge of leading INFORMS. As a member for more than 25 years, I have held leadership positions in a variety of activities, including subdivisions, meetings and INFORMS committees. As a member of the INFORMS Board during a period of financial challenge, I am particularly committed to accountability in spending.

As a long-time chair of a fairly large and diverse department, I have gained experience in reaching out and bridging different interests. As the leader of a department in tough economic times I have generated new revenue streams, including continuing education, distance education and programs for and with government and industry. I believe my experience will serve me well in advancing INFORMS.

I am excited by the future prospects for INFORMS and look forward to serving you!

Ariela Sofer is a professor in the Systems Engineering and Operations Department at George Mason University, and since 2002, chair of the Department. She received the D.Sc. degree in operations research from the George Washington University in 1984. She holds a B.Sc. in mathematics, and an M.Sc. in operations research, both from the Technion Technological Institute of Israel. She has served as INFORMS vice president for Sections and Societies (2009-2010), president of ACORD (2008-2009), chair of INFORMS Computing Society (2004-2005) and in a variety of INFORMS Committees, either as member or chair.