In this article we focus on the quantitative project scheduling problem in IT companies that apply the agile management philosophy and Scrum, in particular. We combine mathematical programming with an agile project flow using a modified multi‐mode resource constrained project scheduling model for software projects (MRCPSSP). The proposed approach can be used to generate schedules as benchmarks for agile development iterations. Computational experiments based on real project data indicate that this approach significantly reduces the project cycle time. The approach can be a useful addition to agile project management, especially for software projects with predefined deadlines and budgets.

Purpose -The purpose of this paper is to focus on the medium-term planning problem in supply chain networks. Based on a literature review, a comprehensive analytical planning model for the three echelon tactical planning problem in supply chain networks is developed which is applicable in a hierarchical planning frame. Design/methodology/approach -The approach used was mathematical mixed integer programming to model three echelon production-distribution networks embedded in the supply chain planning matrix frame. Application of the model in a multi-site planning process based on a case study from the industrial transformer supply chain was also undertaken. Findings -Integrated multi-period medium-term planning with customer oriented single sourcing is an efficient method to implement mathematical optimal solutions in practice as it provides comprehensive tactical plans and network designs. These can be used for scenario analysis in a coordination process with independent supply chain partners.Research limitations/implications -The implementation of a mathematical optimal plan in a complex business network structure requires a big-bucket model solution to grant the plan's stability via sufficient time buffers. Originality/value -The paper displays development of a multi-period three echelon tactical production-distribution-transportation model with different capacities, transportation modes, product types and single sourcing decisions.

In this article, we present a flipped classroom based teaching concept and related open book exam for Master’s courses in the field of Operational Research while paying particular attention to dual curricula management students. The characteristics of dual curricula include that students study part-time complemented by practical stages in cooperating firms. As a consequence, there is a limited number of lectures available compared to full-time programs. Hence, adequate course structures are needed to facilitate learning and encourage students to explore the research field further. We present an illustrative teaching concept focusing on the well-known Resource Constrained Project Scheduling Problem (RCPSP) and GAMS programming. Moreover, we demonstrate how self-study phases and classroom trainings are systematically combined to support the management students’ autonomous programming activities culminating in 24-h open book exams.

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hat an der Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Universität Greifswald am Lehrstuhl für ABWL sowie Unternehmensgründung und-nachfolge promoviert und bekleidet heute eine Professur für Allgemeine Betriebswirtschaftslehre an der European University of Applied Sciences (EUFH). Seine bevorzugten Forschungsund Lehrgebiete sind Produktion und Logistik, taktische Netzwerkplanung, Supply Chain Management, Operations Research und Institutionenökonomie. Die Zusammenarbeit von rechtlich und wirtschaftlich unabhängigen Unternehmen ist sowohl vor als auch während der Kooperation Einflussfaktoren unterworfen, welche die Stabilität eines Unternehmensnetzwerks wie z. B. Supply Chains negativ beeinträchtigen können. Am Beispiel von Forschungs-und Entwicklungskooperationen wird die Problematik opportunistischen Verhaltens während einer Kooperation dargestellt. Mit Hilfe des so genannten Gefangenendilemmas wird gezeigt, dass durch opportunistisches Verhalten effiziente Vereinbarungen selbst dann nicht zu Stande kommen, wenn diese für alle Parteien von Vorteil wären.