Incremental system development of large discrete-event simulation models

The paper presents a methodology for incremental development of large discrete-event simulation models. The proposed methodology has evolved during a project performed in collaboration with BT Products. The methodology is based on configuration management to secure simulation model integrity and modularization of the model. Modularization reduces complexity, allows modeling at a higher level of abstraction and is a prerequisite for both configuration management and incremental development. These are well known methods in the software arena which have been merged and applied to discrete-event simulation. Concurrent development was performed in a heterogeneous environment at geographically separated sites. Due to the incremental approach, results are implemented at successive stages which increases flexibility. Being performed in increments the modeling effort is less susceptible to changes in the studied system thus reducing risk. The lead-time to implementation is reduced since each successive stage is ended with an implementation phase.