Hybrid simulation studies and Hybrid Simulation systems: Definitions, challenges, and benefits

Hybrid Simulation (HS) is not new. However there is contention in academic discourse as to what qualifies as HS? Is there a distinction between multi-method, multi-paradigm and HS? How do we integrate methods from disciplines like OR and computer science that contribute to the success of a M&S study? How do we validate a hybrid model when the whole (the combined model) is greater than the sum of its parts (the individual models)? Most dynamic simulations have a notion of time, how do we realize a unified representation of simulation time across methodologies, techniques and packages, and how do we prevent causality during inter-model message exchange? These are but some of the questions which we found to be asking ourselves frequently, and this panel paper provided a good opportunity to stimulate a discussion along these lines and to open it up to the M&S community.