Overview

Simulation is the realization of a model for a system in computer executable form. That is, the model of the real-world system has been translated into a computer simulation language. The computer realization provides a vehicle to conduct experiments with the model in order to gain insight into the behavior and makeup of the system or to evaluate alternatives. Simulations, to be effective, require a precise formulation of the system to be studied, correct translation of this formulation into a computer program, and interpretation of the results.

Simulation is usually undertaken because the complexity of most computer systems defies use of simpler mathematical means for realistic performance studies. This complexity may occur from inherent stochastic processes in the system, complex interactions of elements that lack mathematical formulations, or the sheer intractability of mathematical relationships that result from the system's equations and constraints. Because of these constraints and other reasons, simulation is often the tool for evaluation. Simulation provides many potential benefits to the modeler. It makes it possible to experiment and study the myriad complex internal interactions of a particular system, with the complexity left up to the modeler.

Simulation allows for the sensitivity analysis of the system by providing a means to alter the model and observe the effects it has on the system's behavior. Through simulation we can often gain a better understanding of the real system. This is because of the detail of the model and the modeler's need to independently understand the computer system in...