Guide to Graph Colouring: Algorithms and Applications

by R. M. R. Lewis

Overview

This textbook treats graph colouring as an algorithmic problem, with a strong emphasis on practical applications. The author describes and analyses some of the best-known algorithms for colouring graphs, focusing on whether these heuristics can provide optimal solutions in some cases; how they perform on graphs where the chromatic number is unknown; and whether they can produce better solutions than other algorithms for certain types of graphs, and why.

The introductory chapters explain graph colouring, complexity theory, bounds and constructive algorithms. The author then shows how advanced, graph colouring techniques can be applied to classic real-world operational research problems such as designing seating plans, sports scheduling, and university timetabling. He includes many examples, suggestions for further reading, and historical notes, and the book is supplemented by an online suite of downloadable code.

The book is of value to researchers, graduate students, and practitioners in the areas of operations research, theoretical computer science, optimization, and computational intelligence. The reader should have elementary knowledge of sets, matrices, and enumerative combinatorics.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9783030810566
Publisher:	Springer International Publishing
Publication date:	10/19/2021
Series:	Texts in Computer Science
Edition description:	Second Edition 2021
Pages:	304
Product dimensions:	6.10(w) x 9.25(h) x (d)

About the Author

Dr. Rhyd Lewis is a reader in operational research at Cardiff School of Mathematics, Cardiff University. Previously, he was a lecturer in quantitative methods at Cardiff Business School. He holds a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Operational Research from Edinburgh Napier University. His research interests cover algorithmic graph theory and the analysis and application of metaheuristic algorithms. He is a cofounder and associate editor of the Intl. J. of Metaheuristics.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Graph Colouring.- 2. Bounds and Constructive Algorithms.- 3. Advanced Techniques for Graph Colouring.- 4. Algorithm Case Studies.- 5. Applications and Extensions.- 6. Designing Seating Plans.- 7. Designing Sports Leagues.- 8. Designing University Timetables.

Editorial Reviews

The book gives a comprehensive description and handling on arguably one of the most important notions of combinatorics—graph coloring. … The book is nicely written, and carries a big pile of information valuable for both users and researchers in the field.” (Andra's Sándor Pluhár, Mathematical Reviews, February, 2017)

“This well-written book will serve as a utilitarian guide to graph coloring and its practical applications. It includes many definitions, theorems, proofs, algorithms, and pointers for further reading. The book will be helpful for teaching courses on graph coloring to students of mathematics and computer science. I strongly recommend it for the intended audience.” (S. V. Nagaraj, Computing Reviews, computingreviews.com, June, 2016)

“The book is a comprehensive guide to graph colouring algorithms. … The book is a nice textbook for both undergraduate and graduate students in the areas of operations research and theoretical computer science. … Finally, it is a good source of knowledge for practitioners.” (Marcin Anholcer, zbMATH 1330.05002, 2016)

From the Publisher