OPS (Online Process Simulator) is a web-based discrete-event simulation (DES) engine for modeling process flows. OPS can be used to simulate simple queueing theory type systems to get insight into how variation will affect the value-added and non-value added time in the system. Descreye Solutions develops OPS along with other custom solutions for companies and organizations that need enhanced analytical capability.
The OPS goal is to decrease the time from system concept to system insight for an idea. This goal is achieved by reducing the software training required to create a simulation model of the system. This allows for rapid model building, which, in turn, allows for quicker insights into the system. Some of the additional features that help achieve our goal of decreasing the time from concept to insight for a system idea include the following:
DES, or discrete-event simulation, is the simulation of a system that can be modeled by events that happen at given times. It is used in manufacturing, supply chain, healthcare, etc. to improve the way a system flows. DES is useful because it allows users to test changes to a system without the risk involved in changing the actual system. By validating that proposed solutions are the optimal solutions, DES can provide an analytical support to manager's decisions. Click here for more information about discrete-event simulation.
DES is most useful in systems where variability has a significant impact on the system dynamics. In systems with significant variation any calculation-based analysis is highly inadequate to capture the complexities that are constantly occuring. Discrete-event simulation is better at analyzing systems with variability, because they embrace the variability, and use it to model the actual system. By doing this the simulation model becomes a replication of the real-life scenario. By replicating the real-life scenario the user then has a basis with which they can make changes and observe the effects of those changes on the system.
OPS (Online Process Simulator) is a DES (discrete-event simulator) using the motto KISS (keep it simple stupid). Enough said... But really, while OPS is not a full-fledged discrete-event simulator with resource monitoring, asynchronous flows, and built-in optimization (at least not yet...), it is powerful in its simplicity. It allows users to understand the complexity that variability can produce even in the smallest of systems. Basically, if you are trying to model your whole production facility with thousands of steps, then this might not be your tool. However, if you, like us, think that the best simulation is one you can get done in 30 minutes, then you will likely get some valuable insight by using OPS.
Descreye Solutions is proud to partner with institutions of learning to help teachers instruct students on the effect of variation on processes and systems. If you are interested in learning more about how OPS can be used within your curriculum visit our education page. Feel free to contact us if you have any additional questions.
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