CHALLENGES
Simulation model design (the process of creating conceptual simulation models) as well as the documentation of a simulation model today is research topic without any standards and practitioners are using office products and very basic approaches to create and document conceptual simulation models. Researchers on the other hand propose very comprehensive approaches such as SysML which however turn out to be hardly transferable into sustainable practical application. A more standardized and tool supported process would be very beneficial in terms of efficiency in simulation modelling.
SOLUTION
The core idea of the solution is to have a standardized representation of the simulation model in BOCs modelling tools using a modelling language such as an extended BPMN. This model representation will be understandable, changeable, and maintainable not only by simulation experts but by anybody who is familiar with modelling languages such as BPMN. The solution comprises a bi-directional interface between the modelling environment and the simulation environment. The conceptual simulation model is set up by using process modelling, the process model is converted into a simulation model (using the interface). After modifications to the simulation model it can be converted back into an updated process model
BENEFITS
More structured process of simulation model creation and simulation model documentation to improve simulation efficiency