A synthetic buffer monitoring strategy in multi-project scheduling

Most existing studies on critical chain buffer monitoring focus on single projects, with limited attention given to multi-projects. However, the scope and emphasis of multi-project monitoring differ from those in single projects, leading to more complex chain structures and trigger settings. This paper proposes a synthetic buffer monitoring strategy to improve the buffer monitoring process in multi-project scheduling. First, we design a hierarchical chain structure both within and across sub-projects, using sub-chain buffer monitoring to replace whole-chain buffer monitoring. Second, we propose a single-point synthetic buffer monitoring method based on dynamic buffer monitoring method and relative buffer monitoring method to enhance the flexibility of trigger settings. Finally, we use a multi-project example from an enterprise to verify the effectiveness of the synthetic buffer monitoring strategy and design four evaluation indicators to assess the outcomes of buffer monitoring. The results show that when a multi-project is delayed, the first warning time for buffer consumption entering the red area is significantly reduced, and the mean warning time after buffer consumption entering the red area is substantially shortened.