Simulation modelling and strategic change : creating the sustainable enterprise

Peer reviewedPublisher PD

Hard Failures - Soft Solutions

The traditional view is that hard problems - those susceptible to the software engineering approach - are in some sense easier to solve than soft problems / problem situations. Hard problems are (in theory) more easily scoped and their solutions more precisely defined and more easily achieved than is the case for soft or messy problems This paper suggests that this is not necessarily the case: reasons for failure in hard and soft environments have much in common. A case study will be used to support the argumen

IS Solution for the Global Environmental Challenge: An Australian Initiative

There is a complex range of interrelated environmental issues that currently challenge decision-makers across the world. To date the reputation of the information and communication technology (ICT) industry in Australia, and elsewhere, has been quite negative with respect to its effect on the environment. The recent ‘Green IT’ initiatives of the Australian Computer Society to reduce carbon emission are manifestations of this. While not denying the worth of this agenda, the authors of this paper suggest that it is timely to promote a more positive position for ICT as a source of solutions to environmental problems. In this paper, we draw on the Australian experience and our own research into various ICT-tools, to map out the territory where these solutions may be found and to identify first steps in their implementation

Interactive dynamic learning environment (IDLE)

The global business community requires graduates with skills and capabilities to cope with real-world interdisciplinary problems. Two key issues frequently noted are the silo disciplinary focus and the lack of exposure to responsible decision-making (RDM). IDLE (Interactive Dynamic Learning Environment) is a web-based computer simulated enterprise delivered through a systems approach broadening students\u27 understanding of the interrelationship between corporations, society and the environment. Engagement in IDLE develops students\u27 understanding and application of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability through the identification of business interdependencies. In IDLE, integrating systems dynamics with agile dynamic system development methods enabled the intricate multifaceted relationships of organisational decision- making that includes CSR and sustainability interrelationships to be explored. The resulting unique design ensures real organisation decision-making dynamics, while not being so complex that the interrelationships were overlooked during student engagement

An interactive learning environment for teaching statistics

This paper outlines the development and use of a web based virtual factory simulator for teaching industrial statistics and process improvement techniques. Students can manage the factory for either a period of one month, or the length specified by lecturers, with the factory running in real time. The main objective is to reduce quality problems and continuously improve the quality over a substantial period of time. Techniques such as control charts, process capability, experimental design and response surface methodology and their underlying statistics are explored. This immersive simulation creates a problem-based learning approach with relevant academic underpinning. It provides the student with the experience of applying theory to the practice of operating a factory in real-time. Students are able to “live” with the problem and research and develop solutions over a significant time period

A methodology for integrating artificial intelligence into a quality management teaching environment

Management flight simulators provide a “microworld” in which users control an organization in a realistic environment without the need to disturb the real system. This paper presents a web-based intelligent virtual learning environment to enhance the education of engineering management students in quality management and statistical process control techniques. The paper introduces the structure and methodology for building this online learning environment. The simulated environment is based on an innovative approach which incorporates a Fuzzy Adaptive Resonance Theory Neural Network to enable students to obtain the best response by automatically identifying out of control conditions

Simulation down under

This paper provides a brief literature review of the current applications of simulation in Australia. The paper identi-fies areas that use simulation modeling and dynamic tools for growth and improvement, while also highlighting opportunities for future applications of simulation. The simulation applications highlighted in this paper are focused on some of the most significant issues facing Australia today

Editorial for the Special Issue on IT and Climate Change

A Selection of Papers from the Carbon-Centric Computing National Research Summit held at the University of Wollongong, November 24, 200

Modelling patient arrivals when simulating an accident and emergency unit

This paper presents a case study of a discrete event simulation model of an Accident and Emergency Unit in a hospital in the UK. The objective of the study is to create a simulation study of the A&E Unit, to evaluate alternative scenarios and hence reducing patient waiting time. The case study uses a novel approach to predict the arrival time of patients and hence results in a more realistic platform on which to base the subsequent scenario analysis. The scenario analysis illustrates that significant reductions in the waiting time of patients can be obtained by relatively minor changes in operations