17715219
A hierarchical framework for evaluating simulation software
Abstract In simulation software selection problems, packages are evaluated either on their own merits or in comparison with other packages. In either method, a comprehensive list of criteria for evaluation of simulation software is essential for proper selection. Although various simulation software evaluation checklists do exist, there are differences in the lists provided and the terminologies used. This paper presents a hierarchical framework for simulation software evaluation consisting of seven main groups and several subgroups. An explanation for each criterion is provided and an analysis of the usability of the proposed framework is further discussed.
39791639
Simulation optimisation using a genetic algorithm
Abstract The paper presents an attempt to apply genetic algorithms (GAs) to the problem of optimising an existing simulation model. A simple real-coded GA is presented and used to change the simulation model parameters. With each new parameter set proposed, a simulation run is performed. From the statistics gathered by running the simulation, a goal function is constructed that measures the quality of these parameters. Because of its nature and the stochastic and unpredictable behaviour of the complex simulation model, the goal function used leads to a highly non-linear, noisy and mixed (discrete and continuous) programming optimisation problem. A GA successfully works on it, and as a result gives a parameter set that measures substantially better than the nominal one. This demonstrates the capability of GAs to solve hard inverse problems even in the area of complex simulation model optimisation.
44704413
Operational Use evaluation of IT investments: An investigation into potential benefits
Abstract The process of evaluation of IT projects often seems to cease just as quantifiable results start to become available—in Operational Use (OU). This paper investigates OU IT evaluation and contrasts it with the evaluation undertaken during the specification, construction, and testing of IT projects; which we choose to call Prior Operational Use (POU) to distinguish it from OU. Analysis of 123 usable responses from the FTSE 500 companies, show that many companies appear not to undertake OU evaluation. However, where OU evaluation was conducted, it appears to be of clear value to the organisations. Benefits claimed include the ability to assess deviations from their original plans, and to provide a basis for validating the original methods used (in their POU evaluations).
1213745
Migrating Agile Methods to Standardized Development Practice
Situated process and quality frameworks offer a way to resolve the tensions that arise when introducing agile methods into standardized software development engineering. For these to be successful, however, organizations must grasp the opportunity to reintegrate software development management, theory, and practice.