Current Issues in Computer Simulation

Current Issues in Computer Simulation is a collection of papers dealing with computer simulation languages, statistical aspects of simulation, linkage with optimization and analytical models, as well as theory and application of simulation methodology. Some papers explain the General Purpose Simulation System (GPSS), a programming package incorporating a language to simulate discrete systems; and the SIMSCRIPT, a general-purpose simulation language using English commands, for example, FORTRAN. Another simulation language is the General Activity Simulation Program (GASP), providing for an organizational structure to build models to simulate the dynamic performance of systems on a digital computer. Other papers discuss simulation models of real systems, including corporate simulation models, multistage consumer choice process, determination of maximum occupancy for hospital facilities, and the juvenile court system. Many computer simulations are statistical sampling experiments performed on a model of the system under investigation. Other papers discuss some of the variables involved in the statistical design and analysis of simulation experiments such as variance reduction techniques, generation of random variates, and experimental layout. For example, one application simulates inventory systems when many items are stocked in various locations. The collection is suitable for programmers, computer engineers, businessmen, hospital administrators, schools officials, and depositories of huge volumes of information or data.