Algorithms for multiprocessor scheduling with machine release times

In this paper we present algorithms for the problem of scheduling n independent jobs on m identical machines. As a generalization of the classical multiprocessor scheduling problem each machine is available only at a machine dependent release time. Two objective functions are considered. To minimize the makespan, we develop a dual approximation algorithm with a worst case bound of 5/4. For the problem of maximizing the minimum completion time, we develop an algorithm, such that the minimum completion time in the schedule produced by this algorithm is at least 2/3 times the minimum completion time in the optimum schedule. The paper closes with some numerical results.