Performability modeling with UltraSAN

The utility of stochastic activity networks (SANs) for performability evaluation is discussed. UltraSAN, a new graphical, X-Windows-based software package that uses SANs, is described. UltraSAN incorporates three innovations: a class of SAN-level performability variables common to both analytical and simulation solution methods, methods that use the performability-variable choice and the SAN structure to greatly reduce the size of the stochastic process required for an analytical solution, and methods that use the performability-variable choice and the SAN structure to reduce the number of activities checked on each state change, thus speeding the simulation. The UltraSAN modeling framework, organization, and user interface are examined. Model construction and solution are described.<>