Until now, schools have relied on a formula of patching on a few requirements.

Current criteria rely more on a cost-versus-benefit formula, in contrast to the grander visions of those earlier years.

Traditionally, photographers who found themselves without a tripod have relied on a basic formula for avoiding camera shake.

Engineers often rely on a different formula, namely that nails should enter the second piece by a distance equaling 12 times the nail's diameter.

The bill relies on a rigid formula based on expense allowances of the Internal Revenue Service.

In the meantime, Conner wants to win by relying on a formula that has worked for him before: expertise on the water.

They had lost touch with their customers by relying on a formula that was at least 25 years old.

"I don't think we can rely only on a mathematical formula," she said.

And most retailers have responded by relying on a simple, battle-tested formula, known inside the industry, only half-jokingly, as "pile it high, watch it fly."

The ranking relied on a weighted formula.