As the field of operations research has matured, its practitioners have increasingly taken on great social challenges and the associated policy questions. The return of the INFORMS Annual Meeting to Washington, DC provides the opportunity to emphasize the great influence operations research can have in this domain. In fact, several challenges have emerged in recent years that are particularly daunting and seem to have politicians groping for answers. Operations research has the potential to provide a fresh perspective and relevant analytic tools to problems involving global warming, energy independence, fair and secure voting mechanisms, global terrorism, homeland security, transportation system delays and affordable health care, to name a few. The INFORMS Annual Meeting 2008 will take advantage of its presence in Washington, DC to emphasize the ability of operations research to take on great social questions and to influence government decision-makers.

Washington, DC is not only the proud home of the U.S. capital, but also a sophisticated city in its own right–a city of wide avenues, majestic monuments and museums that rival the best in the world. It is a dynamic and lively world capital, known for its vast green centers and neoclassical architecture. Washington’s most famous landmarks are clustered in and around the National Mall, from the Lincoln Memorial to the US Capitol, and flanked by dozens of museums and memorials. Beyond these famous landmarks, you will find a rich network of colorful neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife and noted cultural attractions. One of these neighborhoods–Woodley Park–is the location for the INFORMS Annual Meeting, being held at the Marriott Wardman Park and Omni Shoreham hotels. A charming residential area in the northwest corner of the city, Woodley’s streets are lined with boutiques and sidewalk cafes. Only a short walk away is the cosmopolitan Dupont Circle with its eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, galleries and museums. This vibrant capital city is the perfect host for the 2008 INFORMS Annual Meeting.