Practice of simulation in manufacturing and logistic systems

Simulation is one of the important OR/IE modeling techniques. There has been a dramatic increase in the practice of simulation during the last ten years in manufacturing and logistic systems. However, the authors have also received reports that physical systems do not always perform in a manner like the simulation models that are supposed to represent them. Therefore, a careful analysis is required in selecting a simulation language, a computer system, and the modeling process. The principal purpose of this paper is to discuss the various aspects to be considered in choosing an appropriate simulation system and using it correctly in manufacturing and logistic systems. The paper also presents an overview of simulation packages for this purpose. It is concluded that the choice of the right simulation system depends on the needs and available resources of each user, and no simulation system can fit the needs of all users. Finally, the authors comment on the future role of simulation in decision making support systems.