Computer Simulation in Management Science [Paperback]

The fifth edition of this book reflects its continued popularity and standing in the field. It provides a clear guide to the role of modelling and the computer simulation methods used in management science. Readers will find an in-depth coverage of the modelling, computing and statistical aspects of discrete simulation and systems dynamics.

Overall the book shows how practical simulation models are built and used, and provides the theory needed to do this. Revisions to this edition include a new chapter on Monte Carlo simulation using spreadsheets, a new look inside discrete simulation software and simulation models in Visual Basic, SIMUL8 and Micro Saint.

Further information can be found at:

http://www.lancs.ac.uk/staff/smamp/mpsim.html

Preface to the Fifth Edition.

PART I: FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTER SIMULATION IN MANAGEMENT SCIENCE.

1 The computer simulation approach.

1.1 Models, experiments and computers.

1.2 Some applications of computer simulation.

1.2.1 Manufacturing.

1.2.2 Health care.

1.2.3 Business process re-engineering.

1.2.4 Transport systems.

1.2.5 Defence.

1.3 Models in management science.

1.4 Simulation as experimentation.

1.5 Why simulate?

1.5.1 Simulation versus direct experimentation.

1.5.2 Simulation versus mathematical modelling.

1.6 Summary.

Exercises.

References.

2 A variety of modelling approaches.

2.1 General considerations.

2.2 Time handling.

2.2.1 Time slicing.

2.2.2 Next-eventló(