Optimization of the class scheduling process and efficient use of the university’s resources and infrastructure


Objectives of the service

Class scheduling is one of the key organizational processes in any university, as it determines the efficient use of the didactic base and affects the satisfaction level of both the students and the teachers. Creating a schedule taking into account all the relevant factors and limitations is a painstaking and labor-intensive process and requires the analysis of a large amount of scattered data.

PCG uses proven methodology for educational data use and an innovative IT solution for automated timetabling equipped with an advanced optimization algorithm. The objective of the service offered by PCG is to implement a repeatable and largely automated class scheduling process at the university, with a view to assisting the achievement of its strategic objectives and to minimizing the workload for its administrative employees.

Course of the service


  • Analysis of the factual status

    • Interviews with the persons involved in the class timetabling process;
    • Analyzing the input and output data for the planning process;
    • Identifying the lacunae in the class timetabling process.


  • Specification of the target status

    • Identifying the strategic objectives of the university and taking them into account in the planning process;
    • Specifying and assigning priority to the expectations of the university stakeholders (students, teachers, authorities and administrators) with regard to the planning process;
    • Elaborating a strategy of optimum class timetabling based on good practice.


  • Implementation of the optimum class timetabling strategy at the university

    • Implementing the IT system for automated timetabling and integrating it with the university’s databases;
    • Implementing procedures with a view to continuous input of updated data to the system at the university;
    • Trainings for the employees of the planning department and of the IT department.


Benefits

The end result of the PCG activities is a repeatable and automated process enabling the generation of timetables consistent with the strategy of the university and with the expectations of its stakeholders. The services offered by PCG allow to obtain the following benefits:

  • Significant time gains during class timetabling;
  • Optimum use of the university’s human resources and infrastructure;
  • Increase in the level of satisfaction for both students and academic staff;
  • Elimination of typical errors, such as clashes, in class and resource allocation;
  • Building the university's competitive advantage.