The simulation process: avoiding the problems and pitfalls

ABSTRACT

This tutorial will present an approach to conducting a simulation project that will aid in avoiding many common problems and pitfalls. The presentation will provide recommendations on how to scope the project, develop a functional specification, formulate and construct the model, verify and validate, collect data, document the work and perform the required analysis. The intent is to provide the novice simulation modeler with proven techniques for conducting a successful simulation project. A variety of case studies will be presented during the tutorial to illustrate both the right and wrong ways to conduct a project.

REFERENCES

• 1: Banks, J. and Carson, J. S. (1988). Applying the Simulation Process. In: Proceedings of the 1988 Winter Simulation Conference (M. A. Abrams, P. L. Haigh, and J. C. Comfort, eds) San Diego, California, 52--55.
• 2: Johnson, M. E. and Poorte, J. P. (1988) A Hierarchical Approach to Computer Animation in Simulation Modeling. Simulation 50(1), 30--36.
• 3: Law, A. M. (1988). Simulation of Manufacturing Systems. In: Proceedings of the 1988 Winter Simulation Conference (M. A. Abrams, P. L. Haigh, and J. C. Comfort, eds) San Diego, California, 40--49.
• 4: Sargent, R. G. (1987). A Tutorial on Validation and Verification of Simulation Models. In: Proceedings of the 1988 Winter Simulation Conference (M. A. Abrams, P. L. Haigh, and J. C. Comfort, eds) San Diego, California, 33--39.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.6 SIMULATION AND MODELING

Additional Classification:
  G. Mathematics of Computing

  I. Computing Methodologies
  I.6 SIMULATION AND MODELING

General Terms:
Design, Documentation, Experimentation, Verification