SIMULATION MODELING AS A DECISION-SUPPORT TOOL IN MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATIONAL RESEARCH

Abstract

Simulation modeling introduces a powerful mechanism for introducing advancements in theory and research on complex behaviors and systems. It has been embraced more slowly in management than in some associated social science disciplines. We believe that part of the cause is that simulation mechanisms are not well understood. We therefore aim to promote understanding of simulation methodology and to develop an appreciation of its potential contributions to management theory by describing the nature of simulations, its attractions, and its special problems, as well as some uses of computational modeling in management research.