Examination timetabling in British Universities: A survey

Abstract

This paper describes the results of a questionnaire on examination timetabling sent to the registrars of ninety five British Universities. The survey asked questions in three specific categories. Firstly, universities were asked about the nature of their examination timetabling problem: how many people, rooms, periods are involved and what difficulties are associated with the problem? Secondly, we asked about how the problem is solved at their institution and whether a manual or automated system is used. Lastly, we asked what qualities are required in a good timetable. We conclude by making some comments, based on the survey replies, as to what sort of criteria a general automated timetabling system must meet.