Simulation graphical modeling and analysis (SIGMA) tutorial

SIGMA (Σ), an interactive graphics approach to teaching discrete event simulation, is described. Σ is specifically designed to make learning the fundamentals of simulation modeling easy. Σ can automatically translate a simulation model into Pascal or C source code that can be compiled and run on a wide variety of computers. It is possible to represent systems in all of the conventional discrete event worldviews with Σ. The viewpoint is the modeler´s choice, not a dictate of the language. Σ combines the modeling advantages of using network flow process and logic diagrams with the generality and flexibility of explicit event scheduling. The complete source code for Σ-generated simulation models is available to students. Although Σ is elementary, it is completely general; any discrete event simulation (indeed, any computer program) can be created using Σ