Robust optimization models for project scheduling with resource availability cost

We address a project scheduling problem with resource availability cost for which the activity durations are uncertain. The problem is formulated within the robust optimization framework, where uncertainty is modeled via a set of scenarios. The proposed solution method is based on the scatter search methodology and employs advanced strategies, such as dynamic updating of the reference set, a frequency-based memory mechanism, and path relinking. A multistart heuristic was also developed and comparative results are reported. The tradeoffs for risk-averse decision makers are discussed.