How a college solved the problem of large-scale multi-criteria team formation

Abstract

This paper discusses a goal programming technique for creating equitable teams from large numbers of individuals with differing attributes and talents subject to multiple constraints. The solution is derived based on a utility function that applies a weighted penalty for deviation from the optimally equitable team. This technique is then tested by forming teams from a pool of over 200 students with a range of attributes for a high-quality business consulting experience. In addition to saving time and effort, benefits include procedural justice and elimination of bias, defensibility of team formation and expectation of trust, and equitable distribution of competence across teams. As demonstrated here, the technique was remarkably successful at creating teams with respect to the competing priorities from stakeholders. Results are discussed in detail and exemplify efficiency, scalability, and most importantly, equitably formed teams.