Redundancy in lexicographic goal programming: An empirical approach

The purpose of this paper is to draw attention to modellers on the problems associated to redundant goals in lexicographic goal programming models. The meaning of a redundant goal and the possible causes for redundancy are studied. The analysis of 20 cases taken from the literature showed that almost 26% of the priority levels considered were redundant, i.e., more than one fourth of the goals considered did not play an actual role in the optimisation process. Some practical recommendations to avoid such an undesirable situation are given.