The Basic Steps of A Simulation Study

The Basic Steps of a Simulation Study
The application of simulation involves specific steps in order for the simulation study to be
successful. Regardless of the type of problem and the objective of the study, the process by which the
simulation is performed remains constant. The following briefly describes the basic steps in the
simulation process [6, 7]:
1. Problem Definition
The initial step involves defining the goals of the study and determing what needs to be
solved. The problem is further defined through objective observations of the process to be
studied. Care should be taken to determine if simulation is the appropriate tool for the
problem under investigation.
2. Project Planning
The tasks for completing the project are broken down into work packages with a responsible
party assigned to each package. Milestones are indicated for tracking progress. This schedule
is necessary to determine if sufficient time and resources are available for completion.
3. System Definition
This step involves identifying the system components to be modeled and the preformance
measures to be analyzed. Often the system is very complex, thus defining the system requires
an experienced simulator who can find the appropriate level of detail and flexibility.
4. Model Formulation
Understanding how the actual system behaves and determining the basic requirements of the
model are necessary in developing the right model. Creating a flow chart of how the system
operates facilitates the understanding of what variables are involved and how these variables
interact.
5. Input Data Collection & Analysis
After formulating the model, the type of data to collect is determined. New data is collected
and/or existing data is gathered. Data is fitted to theoretical distributions. For example, the
arrival rate of a specific part to the manufacturing plant may follow a normal distribution
curve.
6. Model Translation
The model is translated into programming language. Choices range from general purpose
languages such as fortran or simulation programs such as Arena.
7. Verification & Validation
Verification is the process of ensuring that the model behaves as intended, usually by
debugging or through animation. Verification is necessary but not sufficient for validation,
that is a model may be verified but not valid. Validation ensures that no significant difference
exists between the model and the real system and that the model reflects reality. Validation
can be achieved through statistical analysis. Additionally, face validity may be obtained by
having the model reviewed and supported by an expert.
8. Experimentation & Analysis
Experimentation involves developing the alternative model(s), executing the
simulation runs, and statistically comparing the alternative(s) system
performance with that of the real system.
9. Documentation & Implementation
Documentation consists of the written report and/or presentation. The results
and implications of the study are discussed. The best course of action is
identified, recommended, and justified.
Model Data Comparison with Real Data After model development, we have to
perform comparison of its output data with real system data. Following are the
two approaches to perform this comparison.
Validating the Existing System In this approach, we use real-world inputs of

the model to compare its output with that of the real-world inputs of the real
system. This process of validation is straightforward, however, it may present
some difficulties when carried out, such as if the output is to be compared to
average length, waiting time, idle time, etc. it can be compared using statistical
tests and hypothesis testing. Some of the statistical tests are chi-square test,
Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Cramer-von Mises test, and the Moments test.
Validating the First Time Model Consider we have to describe a proposed

system which doesn’t exist at the present nor has existed in the past. Therefore,
there is no historical data available to compare its performance with. Hence, we
have to use a hypothetical system based on assumptions. Following useful
pointers will help in making it efficient.
 Modelling is the process of representing a model which

includes its construction and working. This model is similar to
a real system, which helps the analyst predict the effect of
changes to the system. In other words, modelling is creating a
model which represents a system including their properties. It
is an act of building a model. some steps in the modeling
process: Establish relationships between entities: Model selection: Flowcharts ?
Gantt charts :Hierarchical database model: Model the processes: Collecting
data ?Document methodology and models
Verification & Validation
One of the real problems that the simulation analyst faces is to validate the
model. The simulation model is valid only if the model is an accurate
representation of the actual system, else it is invalid. Validation and verification
are the two steps in any simulation project to validate a model.
 Validation is the process of comparing two results. In this process, we need

to compare the representation of a conceptual model to the real system.
If the comparison is true, then it is valid, else invalid.
 Verification is the process of comparing two or more results to ensure its
accuracy. In this process, we have to compare the model’s
implementation and its associated data with the developer's conceptual
description and specifications.
Verification & Validation Techniques There are various techniques used to

perform Verification & Validation of Simulation Model. Following are some of the
common techniques – Techniques to Perform Verification of Simulation
Model Following are the ways to perform verification of simulation model − By
using programming skills to write and debug the program in sub-programs.
 By using “Structured Walk-through” policy in which more than one person
is to read the program.
 By tracing the intermediate results and comparing them with observed
outcomes.
 By checking the simulation model output using various input
combinations.
 By comparing final simulation result with analytic results .
A simulation is a model that mimics the operation of a system or process.
The state of a system is defined by ascribing values to a sufficient number of
variables.
A model is stochastic if it has random variables as inputs, and consequently also its
outputs are random.
An entity type typically corresponds to one or several related tables in
database. Attribute. A characteristic or trait of an entity type that describes the entity,
Stochastic systems are complex systems that are characterized by randomness and
uncertainty.
random variable is a variable whose value is unknown or a function that assigns
values to each of an experiment's outcomes.
experimental frame is a specification of the conditions under which a system is observed or
experimented with.
Areas of Application of Simulation
 Manufacturing Applications.
 Semiconductor Manufacturing.
 Construction Engineering and project management.
 Military application.
 Logistics, Supply chain, and distribution application.
 Transportation modes and Traffic.
System dynamics is a method for studying how a system changes over time. A system is a collection
of elements that interact to form a unified whole. Dynamics means change over time.
System dynamics deals with modeling processes over time. There are two ways to model changes
over time: finite and infinitesimal. This leads to two different concepts of time: discrete time and
continuous time.
Discrete systems are systems where the state variables change only at specific points in time or
space. For example, customers arriving at a warehouse at 3:15, 3:23, and 4:01.
Continuous systems are systems where the state variables change continuously over time or space. For
example, the amount of water flow over a dam.
Continuous systems generally provide the lowest operating costs, the greatest energy efficiency, and
the lower-capital-cost option.

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The Basic Steps of a Simulation Study

Validating the Existing System In this approach, we use real-world inputs of

Validating the First Time Model Consider we have to describe a proposed

 Modelling is the process of representing a model which

 Validation is the process of comparing two results. In this process, we need

Verification & Validation Techniques There are various techniques used to

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