An application of network scheduling optimization in a pharmaceutical firm

This paper describes an application of production scheduling optimization methods in a major pharmaceutical firm located in Mexico City, Mexico. A PC-based decision support system was developed based on the idea of network schedule representation and specific scheduling optimization algorithms were incorporated into the system. The system contains a graphical input interface, in which the user draws the network describing the scheduling problem in a manner that resembles project planning software. Our implementation of solution algorithms for minimizing total manufacturing time, average flowtime, and lateness is discussed. An example illustrates the methodology of solution for different types of situations typical of pharmaceutical companies.