Discrete-event simulation: from the pioneers to the present, what next?

Abstract

Discrete-event simulation is one of the most popular modelling techniques. It has developed significantly since the inception of computer simulation in the 1950s, most of this in line with developments in computing. The progress of simulation from its early days is charted with a particular focus on recent history. Specific developments in the past 15 years include visual interactive modelling, simulation optimisation, virtual reality, integration with other software, simulation in the service sector, distributed simulation and the use of the world wide web.The future is then speculated upon. Potential changes in model development, model use, the domain of application for simulation and integration with other simulation approaches are all discussed. The desirability of continuing to follow developments in computing, without significant developments in the wider methodology of simulation, is questioned.

Simulation modelling is 50! Do we need a reality check?

“…As part of the anniversary issue of Operations Research, Nance and Sargent (2002) review the 'art and science' of simulation modelling and the bidirectional influence it has on, and by, the fields of computer science, probability and statistics, and mathematics. Robinson (2005) presents another historical perspective on simulation modelling and associated areas from the 1950s to the present day. The review discusses significant developments that occurred during this history and questions the need of following developments in computing without significant developments in simulation modelling methodology.…”

“…There have been many reviews of simulation modelling research (eg Nance and Sargent, 2002;Robinson, 2005) and reports from experts (eg Taylor and Robinson, 2006;Goldsman et al, 2007;Lendermann et al, 2007). These present simulation modelling as a thriving area with much research still to do.…”

Business Network Simulation: Combining Research Cases and Agent-Based Models in a Robust Methodology

“…This is a system that Dooley & Van de Ven (1999) characterize as high dimensional with non-linear interactions-in our terminology; a CAS. Such systems are inherently difficult to verify using traditional statistical tools (Midgley, Marks, & Kunchamwar, 2007;Wilensky & Rand, 2007;Louie & Carley, 2008;Robinson, 2005).…”

Exploring the model development process in discrete-event simulation: insights from six expert modellers

“…In the last decades simulation has been adopted and used on a wider scale mainly due to developments in computing and the availability of simulation software (Nance and Sargent 2002;Robinson 2005). As a result, modellers with varying levels of modelling experience and skills have gained a wider access to simulation modelling.…”

“…As a result, modellers with varying levels of modelling experience and skills have gained a wider access to simulation modelling. This has raised concerns about the misuse of OR (including simulation) models (Pidd 1999;Hollocks 2001;Robinson 2005). On the other hand, simulation modelling has been characterised as both an art and science (Shannon 1975;Shannon 1998).…”