A framework for configurable hierarchical simulation in a multiple-user decision support environment

In this paper we discuss the new challenge for using simulation modeling tools to support decision making in a multiple-user environment when organizations make business process changes in complex logistics systems. Current simulation based decision support tools are mainly single-level oriented and lack the capability and efficiency to support the business process analysis used by multiple users. Operational freedom for configuring executable simulation models is required by users to conduct customized services. This challenge motivated to design an architecture for configurable hierarchical simulation to support multiple-user decision making in a flexible way. The preliminary idea of a new design principle is presented in this paper.