System sizing using modeling and simulation

A set of well-honed procedures have evolved for developing models that realistically reflect the user's application area. The benefits derived from the application of this systematic approach begin to accrue almost immediately. The paper addresses the benefits derived from the application of modeling and simulation to areas such as architectural trade-offs, and sizing the system to meet the workload. A variety of practical examples are included from server systems, telecommunications networks and manual processes. Inherent in the successful application of the modeling and simulation procedures is the requirement that they be applied iteratively and in a manner that produces frequent feedback from the system designers, managers and user community.