Shift Scheduling Literature Review

Abstract

This scholarly paper provides an in-depth analysis of the literature surrounding shift scheduling, an area of increasing complexity and significance across various industries including healthcare, transportation, and service sectors. By systematically categorizing the body of work into objectives, application domains, constraints, solution methodologies, and evaluation metrics, this review identifies and synthesizes seminal and contemporary contributions to the field. Emphasizing the multifaceted challenges posed by shift scheduling, from cost minimization and employee satisfaction to managing demand volatility, the review explores the array of solution strategies employed, ranging from exact mathematical algorithms to practical heuristic and metaheuristic approaches, against the backdrop of NP-hard problem instances. Special attention is given to the evolving landscape of side constraints such as break flexibility and multi-skilled staffing, highlighting their impact on scheduling efficiency and workforce well-being. The paper culminates in a critical discussion on gaps in existing literature and delineates promising avenues for future research, advocating for innovative methodological developments to navigate the complexities of modern shift scheduling. Through this comprehensive analysis, the review aims to equip both scholars and practitioners with a deeper understanding of current trends, challenges, and potential advancements within the domain of shift scheduling.

Keywords: Shift scheduling, Optimization, NP-hard problems, Heuristics