Computer simulation: an important tool in the fast-food industry

The author discusses the role of computer simulation at Pizza Hut, and describes the characteristics of the simulation models. It is noted that through the use of simulation production and service aspects of Pizza Hut restaurant and delivery unit operations can be examined relative to staffing levels, equipment layout, workflow, customer service, and capacity. This permits optimization of methods through interactive what-if analysis on a computer, prior to actually introducing them to the field. A general-purpose SIMAN simulation model and multiple CINEMA animations were developed. Attention is given to model development and implementation, and to model verification/validation