A decomposition and guided simulation methodology for large-scale system design: A study in QoS-capable intranets with fixed and mobile components

Integrated design of a large–scale distributed system is challenging due to multiple conflicting design objectives, a large number of stochastic parameters, and a combinatorially large design space. Current approaches using decomposition and analysis of isolated subproblems could lead to suboptimization. We develop a framework for integrated design that combines analytical modeling with embedded simulations for large–scale infrastructure planning. The framework uses problem decomposition and a guided simulation methodology, which uses concepts of extrinsic and intrinsic guidance. These are integrated in a comprehensive framework and used to interlink the subproblems and guide the design process towards achieving overall objectives concurrently. A case study demonstrates viability of the framework. The methodology is efficient and flexible, and can be adapted for other problems where resource sharing and integrated system design is critical.