Problem
The Chong Yuet Ming Amenities Centre at the University of Hong Kong is a four-level building that operates mainly for students. Facilities include an exhibition counter, an activity room, a multi-purpose room, a meeting room, a convenience store, two music rooms, student canteens with two restaurants and a large podium outside the entrance/exit of the center. The center is usually overcrowded and always crowded during lunch hours while some parts are under-utilized.
Solution
The students looked at the layout of the building, what rooms and equipment are on each floor and the best way to move between floors. The students simulated the activities in the center to balance the resources. The model assumes that some exhibitions or activities are being held in the center.
Result
The results showed where to add or remove staff to make sure that all employees are better utilized to improve customer satisfaction and decrease bottlenecks. For example, in the cafeteria area, reducing cashiers and increasing cooking staff can reduce wait times in the small cafeteria waiting area. Staffing in the bank is insufficient during peak times — increasing staff by just one person during peak hours would significantly reduce wait times. Students noted that the results of the simulation could be used as a reference for the preparation of specific event days in the center.