APPLICATION OF A SIMULATION-BASED OPTIMIZATION METHOD FOR ASSIGNING LOGISTICS WAREHOUSE WORKERS.

The general attribution problem is recognized as a classic NP-hard challenge. In a warehousing logistics environment, complexity increases due to equipment constraints and the characteristics of sequential processes. To address the difficulties in calculating the benefits of an assignment and finding the optimal plan, we use a simulation-based optimization method. We developed a simulation model of the warehouse using an object-oriented framework for discrete-event simulation. Then, we applied a random neighborhood search method based on the simulation results. This method made it possible to improve the service level of the warehouse while keeping the number of workers constant. With less than an 8% reduction in the inbound service level, it was possible to increase the outbound service level by 25%. The implemented decision support tool becomes capable of assisting the problem of allocation under random workload conditions.