A flexible mixed integer programming-based system for real-world nurse rostering

Researchers have studied the nurse rostering problem for multiple decades. Initially, formulations were rather primitive including only a few necessary restrictions, but down road, become more complex. Nonetheless, fraction of research reaches implementation in practice, and many wards still schedule nurses manually. In this article, we introduce flexible system that employs mathematical optimization to automatically shifts. We developed collaboration with practitioners fully match their needs. The consists comprehensive mixed integer programming (MIP) model along framework. addition common constraints from literature, formulation includes three new further encourage healthy work schedules each nurse. Additionally, reformulated some literature allow complex shift structure matches needs real hospital wards. This flexibility results increased adaptability different is crucial address face. successfully implemented two at Danish hospitals. present MIP computational 12 real-world instances. Furthermore, discuss practical impact provide general feedback using it. Overall, illustrate capabilities tackle diverse instances produce outstanding results.