# Interval Scheduling Problem with more than One Resource

In order to schedule the $n$ job requests over one resource, you sort the requests in order of finish time, choose the request with earliest finish time, choose the next compatible one, and so on.

Now, let us say we have two resources instead of one. How do I schedule my jobs now? As my idea goes, again you start by sorting the requests in order of finish time. My problem is, how do I proceed after that? Do I choose the resources in sequential or in an alternate fashion?

If I go for sequential manner, I schedule all the possible jobs in the first resource and then do the same for second resource with the jobs yet to be scheduled.

If I go for alternate fashion, I choose the first possible job in the first resource, then second possible job in the second resource and so on.

In each case we will have take in to account the chosen jobs being compatible, needless to say.

I can not decide which of these is going to be optimal.

Any input will be appreciated.

• Thanks for the answer. You have put forth a general solution for $k$ resources. When we consider two resources, is not it the same as going in an alternate fashion? – Masroor Mar 18 '13 at 1:22