Finding important independent variables through screening designs: a comparison of methods

Once a simulation model is developed, designed experiments may be employed to efficiently optimize the system. Designed experiments are used on "real" production systems as well. The first step is to screen for important independent variables. Several screening methods are compared and contrasted in terms of efficiency, effectiveness and robustness. These screening methods range from the classical factorial designs and two-stage group screening to new, more novel designs including sequential bifurcation (SB) and iterated fractional factorial designs (IFFD). Conditions for the use of the methods are provided along with references on how to use them.