Editorial: Integrating large language models and operations research for digital transformation and societal governance

In contemporary society, the integration of large language models (LLMs) and operations research (OR) is subtly transforming decision-making, governance and resource allocation. LLMs, rooted in deep learning and big data, bring flexibility and contextual intelligence, while OR contributes mathematical rigor, optimization and systemic clarity. Their convergence represents not only a technological leap but also a catalyst for societal progress and governance innovation. The essence of this synergy lies in combining the interpretive power of LLMs with the precision of OR models to tackle increasingly complex social challenges. Its significance is reflected in several domains: (1) enhancing decision quality and efficiency; (2) balancing personalization and collective equity in service delivery; and (3) improving transparency and legitimacy of digital governance. Across the globe, the joint application of LLMs and OR is receiving growing scholarly and practical attention, marking an emerging frontier of digital transformation (Bommasani, 2021; Xiao et al., 2023; Vial, 2021; Verhoef et al., 2021).As digital societies evolve, multiple governance challenges require new solutions:Traditional OR provides rigorous frameworks but struggles with unstructured and dynamic contexts. LLMs enrich these models by extracting, interpreting and updating social signals, enabling more responsive and resilient governance systems.The joint application of LLMs and OR is proving valuable across a variety of domains:Examples illustrate the potential of this convergence.The deployment of LLM–OR integration in digital transformation exhibits pivotal trends.The convergence of LLMs and OR stands at the frontier of digital transformation, reshaping governance, business and society. Their synergy fosters decision-making that is rigorous yet adaptive, personalized yet collective, efficient yet legitimate. As challenges multiply in an interconnected world, LLM–OR integration may well become a cornerstone of societal resilience and innovation. We call for critical inquiry, interdisciplinary research and international collaboration to guide this emerging paradigm toward inclusive and sustainable futures.