An efficient multi-pass heuristic for project scheduling with constrained resources

In this work an efficient heuristic solution technique for the Resource-Constrained Project Scheduling Problem (RCPSP) is proposed. This technique is a hybrid multi-pass method that combines random sampling procedures with a Backward–Forward scheduling method applied in a selective way. The performance of the new technique is evaluated against the best currently available heuristics using a well-known set of instances. The results obtained point out the interest of the selective use of the Backward–Forward scheduling methods as improving procedure. The resultant technique outperforms both the heuristics and metaheuristics currently available for the RCPSP, thus it is competitive with the best heuristic solution techniques for this problem.