Job Sequencing and Scheduling for Industrial Engineering

Efficient scheduling is the backbone of productive manufacturing and service operations. Without systematic job sequencing, production lines suffer from long idle times, missed deadlines, and high operational costs. This text-based course guides you through the core principles of sequencing theory, showing you how to mathematically determine the optimal order of tasks across single and multiple machines. You will begin by learning key terminology, scheduling variables, and basic performance metrics before moving step-by-step through practical algorithms. Through written explanations and structured calculations, you will gain the skills needed to analyze workflows and improve operational throughput. What you'll learn: - Understand foundational sequencing terminology, including makespan, tardiness, lateness, and machine idle time. - Apply single-machine sequencing rules such as First-Come First-Served (FCFS), Shortest Processing Time (SPT), Earliest Due Date (EDD), and Critical Ratio (CR). - Solve two-machine sequencing problems using Johnson's Rule to minimize total elapsed time. - Extend Johnson's Rule to three-machine configurations using mathematical simplification techniques. - Analyze and compare sequencing methods using modern operational metrics and performance indicators. This course begins with basic concepts and definitions, building up to multi-machine environments with clear, written step-by-step walkthroughs of each scheduling method. It is designed for beginners in industrial engineering, operations management, or logistics, with no prior scheduling experience required. Start mastering the algorithms that keep modern production lines running on time.