| Abstract: | To tackle large and complex problems, a modern simulation modeling system must posses six characteristics: simplicity, user extensibility, object orientation, flexibility, capability, and initialization. Simplicity allows those users who are nonprofessionals in simulation modeling to use the system to build their models. User extensibility is a self perfection mechanism by which the user is able to extend the abilities of the system for large and complex problems. Object oriented methodology is a natural way of simulation modeling. Flexibility can increase the range to which the system can be applied. Powerful systems satisfy demand for ever growing complicated problems. Efficient facilities for the initialization of a model reduces the pain of initializing complicated models. The GPMS language owns each of these features. It is an English like user extensible simulation language, providing simplicity for less experienced users and allowing new data types to be defined to increase its ability. It gives the user a choice between object oriented and function oriented modeling style. Its flexibility in building models prevents the user from obeying strict rules. Its powerful constructs allow the user to describe arbitrarily complicated models. Intelligent model initialization reduces the user's effort greatly. |
