When data entry is complete, the coordinates of the center of gravity are automatically computed in E17..F17. The solution turns out to be quite simple. The X coordinate of the center of gravity is the sum of column H divided by the sum of column G. The Y coordinate is the sum of column I divided by the sum of column G. These coordinates place the plant in a pasture just west of Tyler, Texas.

Section B of the model, Figure 2, computes distribution costs from the center of gravity to each customer. Since we don't have data on transportation rates, the only information of interest here is column E, the distance from each customer to the center.

The solution shown in Figure 1 is an approximation that can be refined using an iterative search procedure which we won't bother with here. The refinement usually does not change the solution appreciably. Furthermore, the aim of the CENTER model is to give management a starting point for determining a reasonable facility location. Certainly many other factors must be considered in addition to the center of gravity.

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