XLOPTIM

One highly recommended tool in the Education sector, particularly within Science Tools, is XLOPTIM. The latest version, 2021.2.1, developed by ADDINSOFT INC, serves as a robust solution for optimizing operations directly within Excel worksheets. Weighing in at a manageable 45.1 MB, this software does not take up significant space and is supported on Windows 8, 10, and 11.

The strength of XLOPTIM lies in its no-code AI platform that leverages LocalSolver's optimization engine, seamlessly integrated into Excel. This AI platform helps users find efficient solutions quickly, enhancing productivity, especially in decision-making scenarios. XLOPTIM is built for ease of use, with dropdown menus directly within Microsoft Excel that provide instant results in editable and shareable spreadsheet formats.

The program excels in the education field, making it an excellent primary aide for teaching Operations Research and Business Analytics. The incorporated optimization solver combines both exact (Branch & Bound) and heuristic (local and global search) techniques. With these advanced optimization techniques, users can tackle a wide array of complexities in various fields like supply chain, production, energy, and finance, making smarter decisions.

A standout feature of XLOPTIM is its blend of power and simplicity, supported by the extensive experience of ADDINSOFT and LocalSolver. The program is designed for those seeking both simplicity and depth in their optimization tasks. Additionally, the availability of tutorials and videos ensures users can easily learn and apply Operations Research techniques effectively.

Those interested can download the software for free, providing an excellent opportunity to explore its capabilities without any financial commitment. The accessibility of this powerful educational tool shouldn't be overlooked, and it's particularly advantageous for students and professionals looking to optimize their operational strategies.

Pros:

1. Free download.
2. No-code AI platform integrated into Excel.
3. Advanced optimization techniques combining exact and heuristic methods.
4. User-friendly with tutorials and videos available for learning.
5. Versatile applications across various fields.

Cons:

1. Limited to Windows OS (8/10/11).
2. Might require a learning curve for users unfamiliar with optimization techniques.

Overall, XLOPTIM version 2021.2.1 by ADDINSOFT INC is a valuable resource for anyone in the field of science tools, particularly in education, offering powerful optimization capabilities conveniently within Excel.

You may want to check out more software, such as Maxima and Minima, DAC Express or IUCLID5, which might be related to XLOPTIM.