Cloud computing allows rapid provision of resources based on the need. This enables users to execute the independent tasks and dependent tasks called workflows on the cloud system. Workflow scheduling is a crucial problem that is NP Hard and is still a challenging problem. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is one of the commonly used metaheuristic algorithms for solving task scheduling problems, but it has issues with premature convergence and lack of diversity. In recent years, chaotic maps have been employed in PSO to enhance its performance. This study proposes a Constriction factor-based inertia weight in PSO for workflow scheduling (CFPSO). The proposed algorithm utilizes a constriction factor for updating the inertia weight, which enhances the exploration ability of the algorithm thereby avoid local optima. The algorithm considers a fitness function with an aim to minimize makespan, service cost, and maximize load balance. The proposed algorithm is evaluated using a set of benchmark workflows, and the obtained results are compared with the standard PSO algorithm, Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) algorithm and Chaotic PSO algorithm. The extensive experimentation performed show that the proposed algorithm outperforms the other algorithms in terms of makespan, service cost, and load balance. The proposed CFPSO shows reduction of 20% of makespan, 2% of the service cost and 18% load balance rate compared to the conventional algorithms on Montage workflow with 1000 tasks. The use of constriction factor enhances the performance of the algorithm and makes it suitable for solving complex problems with multiple objectives. The proposed algorithm can be used in real-world applications to optimize workflow scheduling in cloud computing environments
