A simulation optimization framework for discrete event logistics systems (DELS)

For large-scale, complex systems, both simulation and optimization methods are needed to support system design and operational decision making. Integrating the two methodologies, however, presents a number of conceptual and technical problems. This paper argues that the required integration can be successfully achieved, within a specific domain, by using a formal domain specific language for specifying instance problems and for structuring the analysis models and their interfaces. The domain must include a large enough class of problems to justify the resulting specialization of analysis models.