Sophisticated models and complex mathematical formulations are not always necessary for the development of successful planning techniques. Often rather simple and straightforward algebraic statements will serve management's purposes very well. Since planning is in essence prediction, precision of prediction is desirable. Although a relatively simple and direct planning method may lose in precision, it has certain major advantages: (1) timeliness through quick development and application; (2) ease of application; and (3) an understanding of the model on the part of management, who must take action on the basis of the predictions. Often these advantages far outweigh the disadvantages of loss of precision. Operations Research, ISSN 0030-364X, was published as Journal of the Operations Research Society of America from 1952 to 1955 under ISSN 0096-3984.