Linear Programming

The general purpose of linear programming technique is to identify best suitable decision variable so that we get the optimize objectives and examples will include the least possible cost and the maximum attainable profit.

Hence, by using linear programming technique, we take the efforts of manually selecting decision variables. In addition, results are optimized and we get the utmost possible savings or the least possible cost. Although, it is already a known fact that this technique totally depends entirely on the data’s accuracy. So, if the data in real life is going to be considerably ambiguous, then the technique might not provide optimized solutions and in other words, if the given schedule is followed as it is intended to be, then only then we will attain optimized costs.

On the other hand, it costs time to formulate and solve the problem on Microsoft Excel or any other spread sheet programs. So, it is essential that the operators learn the needed training in using and applying linear programming and to also include the basic computing skills and most importantly, the use and basic understanding of the spread sheet programs. With all these, we should need the most accurate data to start with the model formulations.

In Acme Mexico City, the problem lies in managing the schedule of the hired 68 customer service personnel on the floor. These 68 personnel are further broken down to 23 full-time employees and 45 part-time employees. In order for the cost needs to be minimized, and the best services need to be given to customers, total adherence to the legal and human resource requirements and in addition company policies are to be strictly followed. And with the help of the linear programming technique, it addresses and aims in optimizing the manpower scheduling for effectiveness and derive the minimum costs and henceforth the maximum savings.

The application of linear programming will present a best solution of manpower planning within the day. It shows how many employees need to work within a certain time and when they should take their designated lunch or dinner breaks. Therefore, the decision-making process on the whole case is systematized and made routine. Also, the provided decision by linear programming is guaranteed to be the lowest cost solution. Hence there will be a minimum cost in the employees following the already given schedule.

In addition, there are several challenges to develop the optimized cost structure as provided by the linear programming technique. First, is that the involved personnel need to be trained well enough to be qualified and proficient in order to fulfill each other’s positions and need to be flexible in their skill sets. Secondly, the culture of the organization should be customer friendly and that process as a whole should be designed whereas the customer is the main focal point of the company. Otherwise it will not be as impactful as it designed to be planned. Also, to take lunch or dinner breaks at designated time should be compatible with the organizational culture.

The recommended low-cost customer service employee daily assignment schedule is shown in this table:

        Our underlying assumptions and qualitative factors that we believed are involved are the following: The schedule given will be exactly followed by all of the employees (therefore, assuming there will be no late comers, going home early, and no change in lunch or dinner breaks); The requirements given would be exactly like this and there will no changes whatsoever during the day; All employees are equally capable and every individual can match everyone else’ capabilities; All employees’ skills are flexible enough to substitute any one of the employees skill sets.