Robust Optimization Based Heuristic Approach for Solving Stochastic Multi-Mode Resource Constrained Project Scheduling Problem

Abstract

To deal with uncertain or stochastic durations in a Stochastic Multi-Mode Resource-Constrained Project Scheduling Problem (SMRCPSP), this paper proposes a robust optimization (RO) approach, which is claimed as the second research work in this similar research paradigm. When compared with the only other available approach in the literature, the applicability and uniqueness of the proposed RO approach are clearly demonstrated by the solution methodology and uncertainty considerations. Depending on different uncertainty characteristics of stochastic durations, different deterministic constraints or equivalent counterparts are generated in a RO framework, which is later solved by an updated modified variable neighbourhood search heuristic (MVNSH). Several standard instances and a real-life case study are solved to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed solution approach. After a careful observation among different uncertainty types, several key strategical decision points are also highlighted for managerial implications.