DEVLOPMENT OF AN INTERACTIVE SIMULATION MODEL FOR MANAGEMENT DECISION MAKING.

This paper describes the development of an interactive simulation model of a job shop and its use as a decision support system to aid management decision making. The interactive model was developed from an existing batch processing model. The interactive nature of the model is demonstrated through its application to situations where certain resources (work centers) are discarded and alternative process routes are simulated. The design of the database of the model is described in detail as it is through interaction with the database, e. g. product structure data, machine routing data, work center data, that much of the flexibility is achieved. Consideration is given to the further development of the model to allow its integration into a full computerized production system through linkage to an MRP (Materials Requriements Planning) system and a real time shop Floor Control System.