Animated simulation models: Miracle or menace

There has been a dramatic increase in the use of computer based simulation modelling over the last decade. A development that has made a significant contribution to the popularity of the simulation approach is the availability of animation facilities. These facilities are usually part of simulation model development software and often do not require very expensive microcomputer equipment. Animation provides some significant advantages during most phases of a simulation modelling effort but also has some inherent dangers and pitfalls. The purpose of this paper is: (i) to identify and discuss some of the more important advantages and disadvantages of animation, and (ii) to provide information about some of the available simulation model development software supporting animation capabilities.