Data and GP modeling framework for manpower planning: The case of fixed-length duties

In the context of manpower planning in general, and with respect to fixed-length shift-duties in particular, Goal Programming (GP) is often useful as an optimization modeling technique for generating shift-duties of worker schedules. A (regular-time) fixed-length duty consists of a fixed number of contiguous hours of work in a day, with a meal/rest break somewhere preferably around the middle of these working hours. It is such properties that enable the straightforward, yet flexible modeling and computation. Such an optimization modeling is built upon the essential foundation of a detailed data modeling and its analysis for all the driving parameters and demand/supply input necessary for numerical computations. Hence data model and GP model form two integral components of this project. Results reported here illustrate the case of baggage service agents planning at the Hong Kong International Airport. Finally, implementation as DSS is briefly described.