An efficient methodology for solving multi-period shift scheduling problems with shift transition preference optimization
Journal of Industrial and Production Engineering, vol.43, no.6, pp.873-892, 2026 (ESCI, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 43 Issue: 6
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1080/21681015.2026.2700229
- Journal Name: Journal of Industrial and Production Engineering
- Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, Compendex, INSPEC, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Materials Science & Engineering Collection (ProQuest), Technology Collection (ProQuest)
- Page Numbers: pp.873-892
- Keywords: linear-integer programming, quadratic programming, Shift scheduling, simulated annealing, work-related fatigue
- Bursa Uludag University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This study proposes a novel mathematical program that relates the schedules of consecutive periods to ensure consistency over a multiperiod scheduling horizon and optimizes shift transition preferences. The initial quadratic program is represented as a linear-integer model by applying the appropriate transformations in the quadratic objective function. In addition to the proposed formulation, we further develop a simulated annealing-based metaheuristic and a hybrid approach to address larger instances within reasonable computational times. We also test the approaches on a real-life problem as well as on experimental scenarios reflecting different ergonomic conditions. The results indicate that the metaheuristic and the hybrid approaches are particularly more effective for large-scale problems, whereas the mathematical program remains well-suited for smaller instances. It is noted, for very large cases, that the simulated annealing-based approach delivers high-quality solutions quickly. The results also imply the potential of the proposed framework for use in real-life shift scheduling problems.