Embedding a manpower optimization model in a managerial environment

Abstract

Within the context of a complex manpower planning problem, this paper discusses issues of user control in multi-time period, multiple objective linear programming, issues that must be addressed when embedding such problems in a decision support system in a managerial environment. Discussed are issues including the modeling of time series objectives, interactivity that provokes a full learning experience, the ability of the user to “steer” the model by inducing intended effects, the layering of solution information and the use of tabulation and graphical displays to access this information.