Simulation-aided design and evaluation of flexible working times

The configuration of appropriate working time models can be a key factor in the success of both companies and employees. While such models can be used to adapt the available workforce to companies' specific requirements, there are also various disadvantages inherent in these models, generally for the employee. Conflicts which may arise usually have an impact on family, hobbies or honorary posts held. However, there are currently no instruments available to assess the impact a working time model may have in terms of employees' work-life-balance prior to the model's introduction. To close this gap, the simulation procedure OSim-GAM has been developed. This paper details the methodology for assessing working time models from an operational, financial and employee-related point of view. Furthermore, results of a pilot study are presented which uses this methodology to compare different working time models regarding employees' workloads resulting from an imbalance between professional and private life.