Abstract

The resource-constrained multi-project scheduling problem (RCMPSP) presents substantial challenges in project management, especially in industries where multiple projects compete for limited resources. This study provides a comprehensive review of advancements in methods and strategies used to address the complexities of RCMPSP. By examining recent studies, the review categorizes solution techniques into exact methods, heuristics, metaheuristics, and hybrid methods. Each method is evaluated for its efficacy in improving scheduling efficiency and managing project complexity under resource constraints. In particular, hybrid approaches, which combine various techniques, have shown promise in balancing computational feasibility with solution quality, making them suitable for large-scale industrial applications. This review also explores the applications of RCMPSP solutions in various fields, including construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, and identifies key research gaps. The review concludes by identifying key areas for future research in RCMPSP, emphasizing the need for models that integrate sustainability and real-time adaptability to meet project demands and environmental considerations along with different solution methods.