The pragmatic logic of OR consulting practice: Towards a foundational view

Abstract

The originators of pragmatism argued that pragmatism is a way of thinking rather than a set of axioms, rules and methods. They explain how theory and logic derive from the thinking processes of everyday life, at the centre of which are inquiries. Inquiries enable us to get our thoughts clear before we take action; they are the lifeblood of every science and are, according to the pragmatists, constantly engaged in every craft, profession and art. During inquiries habits are formed, confirmed, adjusted or discarded as their operational effects are experienced. The paper, following the approach of the originators, describes the development of a method and logic of OR arrived at by articulating some of the activities I regularly engaged in during my experience of practicing OR. The result is a draft of my pragmatic method of OR. It is claimed that the resulting pragmatic method and logic in effect operationalises pragmatism in an OR context. It is concluded that there is merit in practitioners similarly deriving, and reflecting on, their pragmatic method of OR. The implications for practice, teaching, and research are discussed. Finally, the possibility of developing a foundational view of the practice of OR is briefly considered.