Complex Job Handling (AKA multitasking)

The Complex Job Handling (Multistage Management) feature allows organizations to group multiple independent or interdependent Work Order operations into a single Multistage (MST) group. This ensures that complex field projects—such as themulti-step installation of a gas pipe—are executed in a precise chronological sequence by enforcing strict time dependencies between tasks. By automating these constraints, planners reduce manual scheduling errors, optimize resource utilization, and ensure that field technicians receive clear, compliant instructions for mission-critical activities.

Create a Multistage (MST) Group

Group a limited set of operations—from a single Work Order or multiple Work Orders—into a single job to manage them as a cohesive unit.

1. Navigate to the Work Order Management module in the side navigation bar.

2. Select Manage Work Orders or Manage Work Order Operations.

3. Locate and select the standard operations you wish to group (ensure they belong to the same Operations Center).

4. Click the Actions menu and select Group as MST.

5. Enter a name for the MST group to organize the activities under a unique job header.

Configure Time Dependencies

Set specific time constraints between interdependent activities to dictate the order of performance.

1. Open the Work Order Management module and select your MST group.

2. Navigate to the Dependencies or Configuration tab.

3. Choose a Dependency Type for the related tasks:

   • Finish-Start: Task B can only be scheduled after Task A is completed.

   • Start-Start / Same Day: Both tasks must be scheduled together or not at all.

4. Enter the required Time Constraint (e.g., set a "36-hour" delay between an "excavation" and "pipeline installation").

5. Click Save to apply the logic to the scheduling engine.

Schedule Multistage Activities

Choose between manual control or AI-powered optimization to assign tasks to field workers while respecting all pre-set constraints.

Manual Schedule:

1. Navigate to the Daily Plan or Multi-day Plan dashboard.

2. Drag and drop the MST task into the technician’s schedule.

3. Review the Compliance Instructions provided by the system to ensure the timing respects the defined dependencies.

Automatic Schedule:

1. Navigate to the Scheduling Models configuration page.

2. Select or arrange a model optimized for MST tasks.

3. Run the VRP engine to generate a Virtual Plan.

4. Compare different scheduling models within the virtual view to find the best fit.

5. Select the best model and click Confirm to move the implementation into the Real Plan.

Field Technician Workflow

Technicians manage their assigned multistage tasks through their mobile devices with real-time dependency checks.

1. Open the Agenda on the mobile device to view assigned tasks.

2. Check the Status Indicator to see if a task is "Ready," "Late," or "In Advance."

3. Perform Task (Online): If the device is online, select the task; the system will automatically authorize the start if all time dependencies are met.

4. Manage Constraints (Offline): If working offline, acknowledge the Warning Notification detailing the specific constraints that must be met before starting the work.

Compliance and Limitations

Ensure your job configurations align with system requirements to prevent scheduling conflicts.

Navigate to the Work Order Configuration settings to verify the following:

• Operation Type: Confirm all tasks are Standard Operations (Booking, Enterprise, Project, or Multi-day operations are not supported).

• Management Style: Ensure Work Orders are managed "by operation."

• Location Check: Verify all operations in the group belong to the same Operations Center.