Optimizing Concurrent Product Development Process Using Genetic Algorithm

Scheduling concurrent activities is of great significance to shorten development lead time and minimize the cost, a heuristic optimization scheduling approach therefore is proposed for concurrent product development process, in which some uncertain crucial parameters are determined by genetic algorithm (GA). To ensure the optimal concurrent scheduling and the effective utilization of resources along with the fluent delivery of information, some key factors such as time order, information, resources, lead time and overlapping time of activities are taken into account adequately, and the weights of these factors are fixed by GA. In addition, role allocation and feedback revision process are realized in optimization module. The simulation example is a part of a certain product development process, and the results show the feasibility of the algorithm.