Exploring the Complexity of Layout Parameters in Tournaments and Semi-Complete Digraphs

A simple digraph is semi-complete if for any two of its vertices u and v, at least one of the arcs (u,v) and (v,u) is present. We study the complexity of computing two layout parameters of semi-complete digraphs: cutwidth and optimal linear arrangement (OLA). We prove that: -Both parameters are NP-hard to compute and the known exact and parameterized algorithms for them have essentially optimal running times, assuming the Exponential Time Hypothesis. - The cutwidth parameter admits a quadratic Turing kernel, whereas it does not admit any polynomial kernel unless coNP/poly contains NP. By contrast, OLA admits a linear kernel. These results essentially complete the complexity analysis of computing cutwidth and OLA on semi-complete digraphs. Our techniques can be also used to analyze the sizes of minimal obstructions for having small cutwidth under the induced subdigraph relation.