The methodology used on any given project is never quite the same. Although we follow a structured model development methodology, each one presents new challenges that require a detailed analysis to ensure all aspects of a project are properly and thouroughly addressed. Below is an outline of the basic methodology Simulation Modeling Services follows.

• Initial meeting with client. Includes discussion of the process, scope of the project, requirements and data availability.
  
• SMS provides a fixed-price project proposal.
  
• After acceptance, SMS develops a functional specification. This document includes process descriptions, modeling assumptions, input and output data definitions and planned scenarios.
  
• As the model development begins, the client will be involved in the data collection and analysis.
  
• Once the model has been developed, a verification step is performed. This activity ensures the model has been constructed properly and that there are no bugs, glitches or anomolies which need further attention.
  
• Once verified, the model is validated. The client is involved to a great degree in this step, to make sure the model accurately reflects the actual system under analysis.
  
• An initial simulation run is conducted. The model output becomes the baseline result.
  
• Scenarios are now implemented either by data interface updates or by model logic changes. Each scenario generates a unique set of results which are then compared with the baseline.
  
• All modeling efforts are summarized in report format. If necessary, animation files or video tapes are generated so that non-modelers can have access to the animation and results.
  
• The final step is to drive changes in the client's systems and processes as a result of the project findings. Although SMS supports clients in all their improvement efforts, this is where the client puts the results to use.

Case studies are samples of projects we have completed. What we show here is a summary the specific task or situation Simulation Modeling Services was contracted to solve, the method(s) we used to solve the problem(s) and the results we helped the client acheive.