An Optimization Framework for a Dynamic Multi-Skill Workforce Scheduling and Routing Problem with Time Windows and Synchronization Constraints

Abstract: This article addresses the dynamic multi-skill workforce scheduling and routing problem with time windows and synchronization constraints (DWSRP-TW-SC) inherent in the on-demand home services sector. In this problem, new service requests (tasks) emerge in real-time, necessitating a constant reevaluation of service team task plans. This reevaluation involves maintaining a portion of the plan unaltered, ensuring team-task compatibility, addressing task priorities, and managing synchronization when task demands exceed a team's capabilities. To address the problem, we introduce a real-time optimization framework triggered upon the arrival of new tasks or the elapse of a set time. This framework redesigns the routes of teams with the goal of minimizing the cumulative weighted throughput time for all tasks. For the route redesign phase of this framework, we develop both a mathematical model and an Adaptive Large Neighborhood Search (ALNS) algorithm. We conduct a comprehensive computational study to assess the performance of our proposed ALNS-based reoptimization framework and to examine the impact of reoptimization strategies, frozen period lengths, and varying degrees of dynamism. Our contributions provide practical insights and solutions for effective dynamic workforce management in on-demand home services.