Introducing Simulation in the Organisation

Chapter2

Steps in Introducing simulation

1- Selection of project sponsor The organisation may need to assign a person with the

responsibility for investigating the relevance and feasibility of the simulation approach.

The person should have the following skills and experience

a. Managerial understanding of the process change that simulation can facilitate.

b. Knowledge of data collection and statistical interpretation issues which are required for successful analysis.

The development of training schemes are required to maximize the benefit of using simulation.

Steps in Introducing simulation

2- Evaluation of potential benefits of simulation

Due to the high set-up costs of purchasing the simulation software and the user training, the organisation should look at the long-term benefits of using simulation across a number of potential projects.

3- Estimation of resource requirements:

a. Software costs

b. Hardware cost (in some cases)

c. Training

d. Staff time

Steps in Introducing simulation

4- Selection of simulation software type

The three main categories of simulation systems are

a. General Purpose Languages: such as FORTRAN, C, C++

b. Simulation Languages: such as SIMAN, SLAM, GPSS

c. Visual Interactive Modeling Systems (VIMS or VIMs): such as ARENA, Simul8, ProModel, Flexsim

Steps in Introducing simulation

5- Selection of simulation software package

6- Identification of computer hardware requirements

7- Identification of training needs