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Changing the paradigm: Simulation, now a method of first resort

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Listed:
  • Thomas W. Lucas
  • W. David Kelton
  • Paul J. Sánchez
  • Susan M. Sanchez
  • Ben L. Anderson

Abstract

Decades ago, simulation was famously characterized as a “method of last resort,” to which analysts should turn only “when all else fails.” In those intervening decades, the technologies supporting simulation—computing hardware, simulation‐modeling paradigms, simulation software, design‐and‐analysis methods—have all advanced dramatically. We offer an updated view that simulation is now a very appealing option for modeling and analysis. When applied properly, simulation can provide fully as much insight, with as much precision as desired, as can exact analytical methods that are based on more restrictive assumptions. The fundamental advantage of simulation is that it can tolerate far less restrictive modeling assumptions, leading to an underlying model that is more reflective of reality and thus more valid, leading to better decisions. Published 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 62: 293–303, 2015

Suggested Citation

  • Thomas W. Lucas & W. David Kelton & Paul J. Sánchez & Susan M. Sanchez & Ben L. Anderson, 2015. "Changing the paradigm: Simulation, now a method of first resort," Naval Research Logistics (NRL), John Wiley & Sons, vol. 62(4), pages 293-303, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:navres:v:62:y:2015:i:4:p:293-303
    DOI: 10.1002/nav.21628
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Manuel Chica & Joaquín Bautista & Jesica de Armas, 2019. "Benefits of robust multiobjective optimization for flexible automotive assembly line balancing," Flexible Services and Manufacturing Journal, Springer, vol. 31(1), pages 75-103, March.
    2. Anne E. Dohmen & Jason R. W. Merrick & Lance W. Saunders & Theodore P. Stank & Thomas J. Goldsby, 2023. "When preemptive risk mitigation is insufficient: The effectiveness of continuity and resilience techniques during COVID‐19," Production and Operations Management, Production and Operations Management Society, vol. 32(5), pages 1529-1549, May.
    3. Brian L. Morgan & Harrison C. Schramm & Jerry R. Smith, Jr. & Thomas W. Lucas & Mary L. McDonald & Paul J. Sánchez & Susan M. Sanchez & Stephen C. Upton, 2018. "Improving U.S. Navy Campaign Analyses with Big Data," Interfaces, INFORMS, vol. 48(2), pages 130-146, April.

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