Using Simulation To Evaluate Resource Utilization Strategies

Abstract

This paper presents a simulation model that demonstrates the capability of simulation to evaluate resource allocation and dispatching strategies for technicians performing on-site repairs. The model includes real-world com plexities such as variable travel times based on direction of travel and time of day, and variable arrival rates (non-stationary Pois son process). Technicians take lunch breaks as close to their normally scheduled times as possible. Strategies include "First-Come, First-Served" and "Closest (shortest) Ex pected Travel Time. " Options to allow and disallow roaming between regions are inves tigated.