LPSolve is a desktop executable application developed in Visual Basic using VB.NET and built with Microsoft Visual Studio. It is designed as a Windows-based formulation tool that runs locally on the user’s computer, providing a responsive interface for feed formulation without reliance on cloud services or external databases. The software architecture combines a modern graphical user interface with a robust mathematical optimization engine. LPSolve version 1.0 was made available in February, 2026 with updates released periodically. The program is free to use.

At the core of LPSolve is the lp_solve version 5.5.2.11 algorithm, which is used as a mixed-integer linear programming solver. This algorithm evaluates thousands of possible ingredient combinations to identify solutions that satisfy user-defined constraints while minimizing total ration cost. Mixed-integer capability allows certain ingredients or formulation rules to be handled discretely when required, adding flexibility beyond simple continuous linear programming.

The linear programming engine is tightly integrated with a feed library, interactive nutrient matrix, and reporting system. Users select ingredients from the feed library, define their nutrient composition and prices, and specify minimum and maximum nutrient constraints directly within the matrix. Once solved, LPSolve presents clear outputs showing ingredient inclusion rates, ration cost, and constraint status, supported by summary tables and printable reports for documentation and communication.

LPSolve is intentionally focused on formulation rather than animal modeling. Nutrient requirements are entered explicitly by the user and are not calculated internally based on animal characteristics such as body weight, age, or production level. This design makes LPSolve a flexible and transparent least-cost formulation tool that can be applied across a wide range of species, production stages, and advisory scenarios where requirements are known or defined externally.