About us
Using scientific and mathematical techniques to find better solutions to complex management problems and improve decision making in government.
Who we are
The Government Operational Research Service (GORS) is one of the Civil Service Professions and is the professional body for Operational Research (OR) analysts in the Analysis Function in the Civil Service. We support policy-making, strategy and operations across Government.
There are over 1,200 analysts in GORS, from placement students to Senior Civil Servants. Policy makers across government rely on OR analysts to help them find solutions to complex real-world problems, and improve the quality of life for millions of people across the UK.
Most Operational Researchers have a background in maths, physics, engineering, statistics, or other highly numerate subjects.
What we do
Operational Research (OR) is the discipline of applying advanced analytical methods to define, model and solve complex problems in order to make better decisions. OR analysts offer rigorous, objective and practical analytical support to decision makers, combining technical knowledge of modelling and statistics with consultancy skills and techniques for stakeholder engagement and consensus building.
We work on a broad range of projects using different techniques, which could include quick back-of-the-envelope calculations, data visualisation, forecasting, simulation modelling, classification using machine learning, and quantitative methods for decision making like multi-criteria decision analysis. Many of our members work in specific Analytics or Data Science teams, whilst others are embedded in a policy area, working daily with other professions in government.
Our work brings government policy to life and has an impact on everyone in the UK. OR analysts help answer vital questions such as:
- How can we increase attainment rates for disadvantaged pupils in state schools?
- How can we best measure the performance of the NHS in each region of the UK?
- How will our target to decarbonise the electricity network by 2035 affect energy costs?