Discrete event simulation environments: requirements

The concept of a standard discrete-event simulation environment (SDESE) is presented. The SDESE is different from a language in the sense that it is not syntax dependent, but proposes to define the features and components of an environment which includes a model base, model construction and experimentation facilities. The underlying language syntax is viewed as an independent implementation detail. However the construct of the underlying language (its implementation, data structure, processing capabilities, etc.) may affect the ability of the language to support a SDESE. The environment offers a standard set of interfaces that allow it to integrate tools from multiple sources. Given that two environments, although implemented differently, possess common definitions of model and specific internal features, verification of the input/output definitions of each individual part is possible. a verification process applied to a given SDESE can also be used for another implementation of a SDESE. The molecular has access to a larger pool of resources than is currently available to single-source languages