A multi-objective optimization model for multiple project scheduling and multi-skill human resource assignment problem based on learning and forgetting effect and activities' quality level

Abstract

One of the most important aspects of human resource management is the allocation of the workforce to activities. Human resource assignment to project activities for its scheduling is one of the most real and common issues in project management and scheduling. This becomes even more significant when human resource assignment to multiple projects simultaneously is considered. On the one hand, workforces can have multi skills due to technological and scientific development so that they can be assigned to project activities based on their skill level. On the other hand, the learning effect is also taken into account to make the model more realistic. These factors can affect completion time, total cost and execution quality of projects. In this study, a multi-objective optimization model for multi-project scheduling and multi-skilled human resource assignment problem based on the learning effect and activities' quality is presented. A mixed-integer linear programming model (MILP) is developed for the proposed problem and solved by the e-constraint method in GAMS software. Managers can select a solution based on their priority. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is done on the learning and forgetting effect to investigate their impacts on each objective function.