Simulation page 165

Simulation is the appearance of reality

A technique for conducting experiments (eg. what-if analysis) with a computer on a model of a management system.

One of the most commonly used methods DSS methods

Simulations page 165

• Imitation of reality
• Allows for experimentation and time compression
• Descriptive, not normative
• Can include complexities, but requires special skills
• Handles unstructured problems
• Optimal solution not guaranteed

• Methodology

1. Problem definition
2. Construction of model
3. Testing and validation
4. Design of experiment
5. Experimentation
6. Evaluation
7. Implementation
8. Explore problem at hand
9. Identify alternative solutions
10. Can be object-oriented
11. Enhances decision making
12. View impacts of decision alternatives

Types of Models

Physical models

• Physical (touchable) representations.
• A smaller or larger physical copy of an object.

Abstract models

• Generalisations of reality that remove specific details in favour of general information which is relevant for the purpose.

Object models

• Represent, describe and simplify the appearance, structure, organisation and functioning of things (objects).

Process models

• Represent, describe and simplify the dynamic nature of processes.

Descriptive Models

• Describe the reality as it is or as it is believed to be.
• E.g. mathematical models (see below).
• Useful for satisficing.

Mathematical Models

• Describe reality using mathematical language and techniques, often variables and systems of equations that relate outputs to inputs.

Simulations

• Computerised models of dynamic processes.