Abstract: Techniques described herein relate to a method for performing capacity planning services. The method includes obtaining a current CP state from a client; in response to obtaining the current state: selecting an action based on the current CP state; providing the action to the client, wherein the client performs the action; in response to providing the action: obtaining a new CP state and a headcount associated with the action; calculating a reward based on the headcount and a reward formula; storing the current CP state, the action, the new CP state, and the reward as a learning set in storage comprising a plurality of learning sets; and performing a learning update using a portion of the plurality of learning sets to generate an updated actor, an updated critic, an updated target actor, and an updated target critic.

Abstract: A combined lancing and auxiliary device includes a lancing device with a lancing auxiliary device attached thereto. The lancing auxiliary device can be, for example, a compartment for securely and removably containing items associated or unassociated with lancing, a timer or personal digital assistant device for assisting in documentation, or an illumination device for illuminating a target site. The lancing auxiliary device can be permanently or removably attached to the lancing device.