Mobile workforce scheduling problem with multitask-processes

Abstract

In this work we introduce a new generalization of the Resource-Constrained Project Scheduling Problem - the Mobile Workforce Scheduling Problem with Multitask-Processes (MWSP-MP). This scheduling problem arises in mobile work scenarios and is characterized by tasks to be scheduled that are not independent from each other, but belong to structured business processes. These business processes are subject to timing and cost related properties and restrictions that have to be considered for the scheduling of resources. We fortify the relevance of the MWSP-MP by illustration with process examples from the utility industry and present an initial heuristic for the insertion of processes into solutions of the problem. © 2010 Springer-Verlag.