An application of zero–one goal programming in project selection and resource planning – a case study from the Woodward Governor Company

This paper deals with a project for the Aircraft Controls Group but the model is applicable to all companies that have multiple projects to select and limited resources. The zero–one goal programming (GP) model of this paper focuses on a specific component in the engine control system that has been identified as a potential growth area. Woodward has performed a detailed market analysis and has selected several potential engine programs to pursue. Decisions must be made to determine most advantageous programs to pursue in light of limited resources including capital, personnel and machinery. Therefore, a quantitative method is required for determining which programs to pursue and when they should be pursued. The GP model described in this paper has been developed to determine which programs to pursue in an effort to maximize profit over a four-year period, develop machine procurement plans and estimate personnel requirements.