Optimizing personnel allocation: An integer linear programming problem for enhanced workplace efficiency

In large organizations, the allocation of personnel within office spaces presents significant challenges, particularly with the adoption of modern working methodologies such as smart working, co-working, and agile working. This paper addresses the optimization of workspace assignments to balance occupancy levels while ensuring cohesion within organizational units and compliance with individual work schedules. The proposed approach incorporates constraints to prevent overcrowding, maintain consistent desk assignments, and enforce separation between specific personnel groups. A multi-objective Integer Linear Programming formulation is developed and validated through a real case study. Results demonstrate that the methodology effectively reduces peak occupancy imbalances and strengthens team cohesion, providing human resources departments with a practical decision-support tool that requires minimal technical expertise. The solution features an intuitive web interface that facilitates efficient space management in dynamic working environments.