Methodologies for data collection and model documentation in computer simulation

In recent years, computer simulation has become a mainstream decision support tool in an industry. In order to maximise the benefits of using simulation within businesses, simulation models should be designed, developed and deployed in a shorter time span. A number of factors, such as excessive model details, inefficient data collection, lengthy model documentation and poorly planned experiments, increase the overall lead-time of simulation projects. Among these factors, input data modeling and model documentation are seen as major obstacles. Input data identification, collection, validation and analysis typically take more than one-third of project time. This paper presents an IDEF (Integrated computer-aided manufacturing DEFinition) based approach to accelerate identification and collection of input data. A functional module library and a reference data model, both developed using the IDEF family of constructs, are the core elements of the methodology. In addition, this paper also intends to give a methodological approach that helps and motivates the project team to document simulation projects.

In recent years, computer simulation has become a mainstream decision support tool in an industry. In order to maximise the benefits of using simulation within businesses, simulation models should be designed, developed and deployed in a shorter time span. A number of factors, such as excessive model details, inefficient data collection, lengthy model documentation and poorly planned experiments, increase the overall lead-time of simulation projects. Among these factors, input data modeling and model documentation are seen as major obstacles. Input data identification, collection, validation and analysis typically take more than one-third of project time. This paper presents an IDEF
(Integrated computer-aided manufacturing DEFinition) based approach to accelerate identification and collection of input data. A functional module library and a reference data model, both developed using the IDEF family of constructs, are the core elements of the methodology. In addition, this paper also intends to give a methodological approach that helps and motivates the project team to document simulation projects.