Travel to Workplace—A Route Optimization Using Vehicle Routing Problem

Transport optimization plays a key role in the efficient management of logistics systems to connect every element in a supply chain. There are several algorithms and operations research tools used for the optimization of transport networks. While there are ample examples in the literature that focus on the optimization of supply transport networks in the context of manufacturing and logistics operations, examples of the application of transport optimization for optimizing the transport of workforce to work locations are scarce. An analogy can be drawn with the supply transport network and the possibility of optimization of staff travel to the workplace can be examined. Our present case study collects travel data from the transport system of an educational institute and uses a vehicle routing problem to compare the current travel network with an optimized one. Gurobi Optimizer has been used to run the optimization model and the results show the possibility of reduction in the total distance travelled by the institute’s buses. In the end, the paper also discusses the practical difficulties and other qualitative factors to be considered by the organizations while designing the best feasible transport network for their workforce. Following an optimized route plan will not only add to cost-effectiveness of the organization but also will make a significant contribution towards building a sustainable urban economy.