Microsoft Excel 2019 Data Analysis and Business Modeling, 6th Edition

Chapter 86 Queuing theory: The mathematics of waiting in line

Questions answered in this chapter:

• What factors affect the number of people and the time we spend waiting in line?

• What conditions should be met before analyzing the average number of people present or the average time spent in a queuing system?

• Why does variability degrade the performance of a queuing system?

• Can I easily determine the average time a person spends at airport security or waiting in line at a bank?

What conditions should be met before analyzing the average number of people present or the average time spent in a queuing system?

We have all spent a lot of time waiting in lines (Mickey Mouse demands it), and you’ll soon see that a slight increase in service capacity ...