A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Optimal resource allocation : Convex quantile regression approach




AuthorsDai, Sheng; Kuosmanen, Natalia; Kuosmanen, Timo; Liesiö, Juuso

PublisherElsevier

Publication year2025

JournalEuropean Journal of Operational Research

Journal name in sourceEuropean Journal of Operational Research

ISSN0377-2217

eISSN1872-6860

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejor.2025.01.003

Web address https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejor.2025.01.003

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/491299970


Abstract

Optimal allocation of resources across sub-units in the context of centralized decision-making systems such as bank branches or supermarket chains is a classical application of operations research and management science. In this paper, we develop quantile allocation models to examine how much the output and productivity could potentially increase if the resources were efficiently allocated between units. We increase robustness to random noise and heteroscedasticity by utilizing the local estimation of multiple production functions using convex quantile regression. The quantile allocation models then rely on the estimated shadow prices instead of detailed data of units and allow the entry and exit of units. Our empirical results on Finland’s business sector show that the marginal products of labor and capital largely depart from their respective marginal costs and also reveal that the current allocation of resources is far from optimal. A large potential for productivity gains could be achieved through better allocation, especially for the reallocation of capital, keeping the current technology and resources fixed.


Funding information in the publication
An earlier version of this paper has been published as Ch. 3 of the non-reviewed report Kuosmanen (2022) commissioned by the Prime Minister’s Office of Finland. The financial support from the Prime Minister’s Office of Finland is gratefully acknowledged.


Last updated on 2025-26-05 at 12:11