Discrete-event simulation: an inquiry into user practice

Noting the increasing use of discrete-event simulation directly by non-specialists, this paper considers the significance of methodology and reports results from a survey of user practice in experimentation. The inquiry addressed practitioners engaged in “steady-state” type problems and the outcomes reveal that simulation practice is more strongly influenced by user judgement than formal disciplines. This may, with experienced simulation specialists, lead to correct run control and results interpretation but, with non-specialists, there is higher risk. Particular areas of concern are identified and the study also considers further support that simulation software might bring to the experimentation process.