The Evolver GA add-in for Excel, from Axcelis Inc. of Seattle, can solve linear programming problems and tackle some simple nonlinear problems. Evolver takes up about 2M on the hard drive. The user specifies the initial conditions and desired results. Although basically a neural expert system, it uses genetic algorithms. Omega, marketed by the Dutch company CAP Voltaic and KIQ of London, is based on GAME, the Genetic Algorithm Programming Environment developed at the University College of London.
GAME is used in analyzing legacy databases.
GA is beginning to blend with computer-aided design in the integrated circuit world. Researchers at Stanford University have shown that GA programming might produce software that functions better than human-coded programs. Such massive hardware requirements make GA impractical for solving common problems. But it might be cost-effective if the general solution applies to a whole category of problems, is the only solution for an important task, or leads to optimized software that itself can work on many other problems. John Holland's book, Hidden Order, explores nonlinear systems and explains why genetic algorithms might be the best way to analyze certain complex systems.