Simulation is the process of creating an abstract representation (a model) to represent important aspects of the real world. Just as flight simulators have long been used to help expose pilots and designers to both routine and unexpected circumstances, simulation models can help you explore the behavior of your system under specified situations.
Your simulation model can be used to explore changes and alternatives in a low risk environment. Simulation has been successfully applied to many applications. Cost savings and/or cost avoidance in a typical simulation project are often 10 to 20 times the initial investment within four to six months of initial use.
Well yes and no. Yes, simple models can be be quickly created using a tool like Simio by dragging and dropping icons and provide appropriate data parameters. Simio offers the advantage of automatically creating both 2-D and 3-D views of the model. The skill factor in effective simulation model building is not so much the tool used but in knowing what to include in the model and how to interpret the statistical results generated by the simulation model. Simulation is not unlike other computerized tools like CAD, Finite Analysis, DOE, and even spreadsheets. Experience does count - getting started with an expert can save time and money in the long run.