Mixed Models for the Analysis of Local Search Components

We consider a possible scenario of experimental analysis on heuristics for optimization: identifying the contribution of local search components when algorithms are evaluated on the basis of solution quality attained. We discuss the experimental designs with special focus on the role of the test instances in the statistical analysis. Contrary to previous practice of modeling instances as a blocking factor, we treat them as a random factor. Together with algorithms, or their components, which are fixed factors, this leads naturally to a mixed ANOVA model. We motivate our choice and illustrate the application of the mixed model on a study of local search for the 2-edge-connectivity problem.

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2007
• Where: SLS
• Authors: Jørgen Bang-Jensen, Marco Chiarandini, Yuri Goegebeur, Bent Jørgensen
• Keywords: Local Search, Local Search Components, Mixed Anova Model, SLS 2007