Multi Objective Decision Analysis for Assignment Problems

One of the most common problems in Operations Research is the assignment problem. It deals with the optimization of a decision makers' goal by matching objects in one group (jobs) with objects in another (machines). Flight scheduling in fighter squadrons is a hard and complicated problem which comes with a dynamic environment and multiple decision makers and goals. Using pilots as machines and missions to be flown as jobs, the fighter squadron flight scheduling problem can be solved like an assignment problem with multiple goals. This research develops a new way to solve the multi-objective assignment problem and demonstrates this new approach using the fighter squadron flight scheduling problem as an example. In this research, the Value Focused Thinking method is applied to build a decision analysis model to help decision makers in fighter squadrons evaluate the mission-pilot matches. The decision model built with the help of experienced schedulers is used not only for evaluating matches but also for ordering assignments to see priorities.

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