Simulation-Based Decision Making for Complex Systems

Over the last several decades computer simulationshave been widely utilized to model and analyzecomplex systems at low costs and risks. Althoughsimulation can represent physical systemsrealistically it is a descriptive tool without thecapability of suggesting better solutions. Howeverit can be complemented by incorporating optimizationroutines. The most challenging problem is thatlarge-scale simulation models normally take aconsiderable amount of computer time to execute sothat the number of solution evaluations needed bymost optimization algorithms is not feasible within areasonable time frame. This book therefore providesa highly efficient evolutionary simulation-baseddecision making procedure which can be applied inreal-time management situations. We have used thisnovel simulation-optimization technique to studyseveral disaster response problems. The methodologiesprovided herein should be useful to professionals andresearchers in the fields of industrial engineeringand operations research. The applications in disasterresponse management should help emergency managersand personnel to gain insights into severalsignificant response problems.