A fuzzy goal programming model for task allocation in teamwork. (1st December 2008)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Giannikos, Ioannis; Polychroniou, Panagiotis
• Is Part Of: International journal of human resources development and management. Volume 9:Number 1(2009)
• Page Start: 97
• Page End: 115
• Publication Date: 2008-12-01
• Subjects: teamwork -- task allocation -- fuzzy systems -- goal programming -- employee abilities -- training -- employee satisfaction -- Greece -- subcontracting -- overtime -- Greek banks -- banking industry -- team management -- task assignment; Human capital -- Periodicals; Labor -- Periodicals; Labor economics -- Periodicals; 331.05
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1465-6612

Abstract

This study introduces a fuzzy goal programming model for allocating tasks to employees in teamwork. Each task as well as each employee is represented in a multidimensional ability space on a team basis. The model also considers the possibility of improving employees' abilities through training and of using subcontracting or overtime, if necessary. The proposed model includes four fuzzy goals, which refer to: (1) total training cost, (2) total distance between tasks and employees in the ability space, (3) cost of idle time and (4) cost of overtime. We discuss the applicability of the model using real data from a major Greek bank. Some implications of the study are discussed, including the need for assigning tasks to employees on a team basis taking into account their abilities. Team managers reach better decisions by allocating tasks through a systematic process that includes in the analysis the objectives of the organisation as well as the interests of the employees. As a result, teamwork is encouraged as the objectives of task allocation become evident to all interested parties.