Single-Employee Scheduling with Continuous Learning Effect: Algorithms and Cost Impact under Classical Performance Measures

Authors

  • Shuling Xu Business of School, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, P. R. China
  • Kai Li School of Management, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, P. R. China
  • Jing Liu School of Business, Fuyang Normal University, Fuyang, PR China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23055/ijietap.2024.31.4.10031

Keywords:

Single-employee scheduling, The maximum lateness, The total completion time, The total weighted completion time, Continuous learning effect

Abstract

In many real-world scheduling problems, an employee’s productivity fluctuates continuously as learning occurs in human-machine interactions. This paper addresses single-employee scheduling problems considering this continuous learning effect and various objectives. We derive a formula to calculate the makespan and show that the order of the jobs has no effect on the makespan, as opposed to cases where the learning effect is assumed to be discrete. In addition, we demonstrate the optimality of the Shortest Normal Processing Time first (SPT), Earliest Due Date first (EDD), and Shortest Weighted Normal Processing Time first (WSPT) rules for minimizing total completion time, weighted total completion time, and maximum lateness, respectively. A numerical example underscores the key role of the learning rate in task arrangement and provides insights for learning organizations or individuals to manage tasks effectively.

Published

2024-08-15

How to Cite

Xu, S., Li, K., & Liu, J. (2024). Single-Employee Scheduling with Continuous Learning Effect: Algorithms and Cost Impact under Classical Performance Measures. International Journal of Industrial Engineering: Theory, Applications and Practice, 31(4). https://doi.org/10.23055/ijietap.2024.31.4.10031

Issue

Section

Work Measurement, Human Factors and Ergonomics