Shiftwork scheduling algorithms with phase-delay feature

Shiftwork is common in manufacturing and service operations, but shiftwork has many negative effects on workers. Shiftwork researchers have suggested that shift changes should be in the clockwise (forward) direction. We present shiftwork scheduling algorithms that incorporate this phase-delay feature for two workweek scenarios, one under the 5-day workweek and the other under the 3-4-day workweek. The proposed algorithms are designed to be implemented by hand and schedules generated will satisfy staffing and off-day requirements. Facility managers looking for better ways to schedule shiftwork may find the proposed scheduling algorithms useful.