Comparing the use of discrete-event simulation and system dynamics models

ABSTRACT

System Dynamics (SD) and Discrete-Event Simulation (DES) are two simulation techniques widely used in Operational Research. Existing literature on how these approaches compare is scarce. The few comparative studies found in the literature are mostly based on the authors' personal opinions. Bringing the end user into the picture can give interesting insights about how differently users perceive DES and SD simulation models. This paper provides an empirical study on the comparison of the two simulation approaches in terms of model use. We used a questionnaire survey with executive MBA students in order to assess how different users find the two simulation approaches in terms of understanding, complexity, model validity, model usefulness and model results. Our results suggest that model users do not perceive any significant differences between a DES and SD model.