Discrete-event simulation: When prototyping of large, complex systems is impossible, this technique, based on known behaviors of interacting elements, is useful

The authors describe how discrete-event simulation is used. The development of an abstract model of how the system to be simulated works, which is the first step in discrete-event simulation, is described. The system model itself can range from a basic conceptual type, such as a paper study of how the parts of a system are put together, to a precise set of mathematical relationships describing the system´s behavior. Once the model has been specified and validated, a language-specific model and a corresponding simulation program are developed. The utilization of artificial intelligence techniques is examined, and the outlook for discrete-event simulation is considered.