Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who would benefit from using Simulation Modelling, Optimisation or Scheduling?
A. Any industry, business or government organisation that has a complex operational/business problem to solve and wants to improve their processes, productivity, performance and competitiveness.
Q. How do I know if Simulation Modelling, Optimisation or Scheduling will help me?
A. In general, Simulation Modelling is an appropriate technique to use if you are planning to build a brand new facility, implement an upgrade to an existing operation to increase capacity or conduct a de-bottlenecking study. Optimisation is an appropriate technique to use if you need to create a schedule or to establish the best possible course of action for a quantitative problem.
Q. What are the steps involved in developing a Simulation or Optimisation Model?
A. The steps include:
- a scoping session (to assess the project’s requirements)
- data collection and analysis
- model building (which can be done in either 2D or 3D animation)
- model verification and validation
- model usage (where base case analysis and scenario analysis occurs) and
- finally reporting (where valuable insight is given and recommendations are made).
Q. How long does it take to build a Simulation Model?
A. This depends on the detail and complexity of the required model, however, for most moderately sized projects the scoping, data collection/analysis and model building phases can be completed in four to six weeks.
Q. Is a scoping session a good idea?
A. When beginning a project, a half to full day scoping session with key stakeholders is useful for aligning the project’s goals, establishing the level of detail required and the model’s boundaries. This can save time and money in the long run.
Q. Is there a fee for an initial discussion?
A. There is no fee for the initial discussion. We are happy to discuss your requirements and to point you in the right direction. Not every problem can be addressed by using Simulation Modelling, Optimisation or Scheduling techniques and if that is the case, we will advise you of this.
Q. So how do you charge for your services?
A. We can work on a rates basis or give you a lump sum quote.
Q. How much does it cost to build a model?
A. We charge for one person to work on a project, which gives you the best value for money (and you aren’t paying for the training of a junior). In addition to this, our rates are extremely competitive. To find out more, contact us regarding a free quote.
Q. Do you have any references?
A. We are happy to provide referee details.
Q. How long have you been in business?
A. OPTSIM was established in 2004.
Q. What software do you use?
A. We use ARENA to develop our Simulation Models. We have also developed our own Simulation environment for clients to be able to run alternative Simulation Model scenarios. For Optimisation Models, we have developed Excel based Optimisation Models using the built-in solver. For larger-sized Optimisation Models, we have developed models using the unlocked version of the built-in solver.
Q. You are not based in my capital city, can you work effectively on my project?
A. We have successfully completed many projects interstate and overseas. There are times when face to face meetings are required, typically at the start of a project and during reporting, however, the use of web presentations and regular phone meetings are usually sufficient to successfully complete a project.