Key takeaways
- The planner chooses manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic scheduling.
- Fixed points are locked by the planner and respected by the solver.
- Staffing pins limit what can change in a run.
- Solver feedback should be reviewed before changes are applied.
What decisions stay with the planner?
The planner decides the scheduling method, the fixed points, and the changes allowed in each run. Manual, semi-automatic, and fully automatic methods all have a place.
Which controls matter during generation?
These controls keep a run explainable.
- Scheduling method: manual, semi-automatic, or fully automatic
- Fixed points the planner locks
- Staffing pins that limit assignment changes
- Solver feedback shown before changes are applied
- Reasons why a period is unusable for a lesson
- A record of commitments locked for the run
How should planners use fixed points?
Fixed points work best when they are few and deliberate.
- Name the placement that must stay fixed.
- Check that the fixed point does not contradict known constraints.
- Lock it before the run that must respect it.
- Generate around the fixed point.
- Review solver feedback for conflicts caused by the lock.
- Change the fixed point only when the planner accepts that trade-off.
How does feedback protect control?
Feedback matters before a change is applied. If the scheduling screen shows why a period is unusable, the planner can choose between a swap, a staffing pin, or a different scheduling method.
What should be recorded after a controlled run?
A short record helps the next run start from known decisions.
- Scheduling method used for the run
- Fixed points locked by the planner
- Staffing pins applied to limit changes
- Solver feedback accepted or rejected
- Conflicts left for validation or FIT work
- Any fixed point that needs leadership review
Questions planners ask about control
What is a fixed point?
A fixed point is a placement the planner locks, such as a games afternoon. The solver should build around it.
When should staffing be pinned?
Pin staffing when the planner wants to limit what changes in a run. It is useful when the question is placement, not who teaches the lesson.
Should solver suggestions apply automatically?
No. Review feedback before applying changes, especially when it affects fixed points or staffing.