So what is the benefit of simulation that I can extract from it?
In our video talk “Why simulate”, Dirk Wortmann and Harry Kestenbaum discussed this question and Dirk answered as follows:
“Well, the classic benefit is, of course, that I first of all secure what I am planning. That means I want to invest today and then be sure that what I have invested will also bring what I expect. So that is the first important point, the classic task of simulation.
But beyond that, we go one step further. We say we optimise the system. That means it’s not just a question of “can it or can’t it?”, but also a question of “what could I do better?
So and then it’s also about such topics: “How much more buffer do I need?”, “Do I perhaps need one or the other machine more?”, “Do I need more or less conveyor technology?”.
Such questions can then also be answered with the simulation. Especially if different opinions exist at the table.
And you may also know this from planning projects, that people sit opposite each other, look deeply into each other’s eyes and don’t actually know the right answer.”