This book addresses the application of simulation modelling techniques in order to enable better informed decisions in business and industrial organisations. The book's unique approach treats simulation not just as a technical tool, but as a support for organisational decision making, showing the results from a survey of current and potential users of simulation to suggest reasons why the technique is not used as much as it should be and what are the barriers to its further use.
The aim of this book is to help enable the use of the technique of simulation modelling in the organisation. There is an emphasis in the book on the implementation of the technique in organisations, rather than a detailed treatment of the mechanics of simulation software execution or the statistical analysis undertaken during a study. The focus in this text is on recent changes in the way simulation is used which have led to its wider use and provide the potential for a continued growth in use. Chapter 1 provides an overview of the technique and gives details of where the technique can be applied in the organisation. Chapter 2 provides evidence of previous and current survey research showing the use of simulation and the challenges ahead if usage is to be increased. A particular area of growth in the use of simulation is in service applications. This has led to an interest in the modelling of human behaviour in addition to the traditional simulation of material and information processes. A framework is presented indicating approaches to the challenge of modelling people in organisations to provide guidance for simulation practitioners. Chapter 3 examines the physical and human resources that are necessary to enable a simulation capability within the organisation.
The aim of this book is to help enable the use of the technique of simulation modelling in the organisation. There is an emphasis in the book on the implementation of the technique in organisations, rather than a detailed treatment of the mechanics of simulation software execution or the statistical analysis undertaken during a study. The focus in this text is on recent changes in the way simulation is used which have led to its wider use and provide the potential for a continued growth in use. Chapter 1 provides an overview of the technique and gives details of where the technique can be applied in the organisation. Chapter 2 provides evidence of previous and current survey research showing the use of simulation and the challenges ahead if usage is to be increased. A particular area of growth in the use of simulation is in service applications. This has led to an interest in the modelling of human behaviour in addition to the traditional simulation of material and information processes. A framework is presented indicating approaches to the challenge of modelling people in organisations to provide guidance for simulation practitioners. Chapter 3 examines the physical and human resources that are necessary to enable a simulation capability within the organisation.