Choose single queue vs multiple queues

Q: Choose single queue vs multiple queues

This question evaluates understanding of queueing theory, stochastic modeling of wait times, variability analysis, and the ability to state modeling assumptions and operational trade-offs in service systems.

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Question

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Bank queue design choice

A bank has 5 tellers.

Two possible customer-flow designs:

Single queue : one common line feeding the next available teller (pooling).
Multiple queues : 5 separate lines , one per teller (customers choose a line).

Questions

Which design would you personally choose as a customer if you want to minimize expected waiting time ?
Which design leads to more/less variability (variance) in waiting time?
State any assumptions you need (e.g., customers arrive randomly; tellers have i.i.d. service times; no line switching/jockeying).
Under what real-world conditions might the “worse” design become preferable (e.g., different teller speeds, priority customers, jockeying, perceived fairness)?

Choose single queue vs multiple queues

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Bank queue design choice

Questions

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