University of Tehran Press Industrial Management Journal 3115-7386 18 3 2026 07 01 An Integrated PMBOK-Based Mixed-Integer Optimization Framework for Rescue-Robot Projects 145 176 107870 10.22059/imj.2026.412066.1008297 EN Mojtaba Norozi Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Management and Industrial Engineering, Malek Ashtar University of Technology, Tehran, Iran. 0009-0004-7022-2415 Seyed Akbar Nilipour Tabatabaei Assistant Prof., Department of Industrial Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Najafabad Branch, Najafabad, Iran. Journal Article 2026 02 27 <strong>Objective</strong>: This study proposes a novel integrated Mixed-Integer Programming (MIP) framework for managing complex engineering projects in alignment with PMBOK principles. Unlike conventional approaches that address project management knowledge areas independently, the proposed model simultaneously incorporates six PMBOK domains: procurement, schedule, cost, quality, human resources, and integration management within a unified mathematical optimization structure. <strong>Methodology:</strong> The framework enables optimal supplier selection based on cost–quality trade-offs, multi-skill workforce allocation, and synchronized task scheduling. A key methodological contribution is the introduction of a task initiation cost mechanism and an active-period minimization structure, allowing the model to capture hidden project overheads and reduce unnecessary task dispersion. <strong>Results</strong>: The model is applied to the design and development of a search and rescue robot as a representative high-complexity technological project. Computational experiments demonstrate the model’s effectiveness in optimizing resource allocation and reveal the dominant impact of human resource costs on total project expenditure. Sensitivity analyses further highlight nonlinear trade-offs among procurement cost, quality thresholds, and project duration. Notably, results indicate that relaxing quality constraints may reduce procurement expenses but paradoxically increase total project cost and completion time, emphasizing the necessity of integrated decision-making. <strong>Conclusion</strong> The proposed framework contributes to the advancement of data-driven project management by bridging PMBOK-based managerial structures with rigorous mathematical optimization. It offers a practical decision-support tool for project managers operating in multi-domain, resource-constrained engineering environments. https://imj.ut.ac.ir/article_107870_8890e84fa8244fb6b45175bda383cd93.pdf