Utility of data base management to analyze the output from complex simulations

The analysis of the outputs generated by high level simulation languages from complex systems models is often hindered by both the statistics collection capability of the simulation language and the foresight employed by the modeler in the model construction. Augmenting a simulation language (INS) with a database management system (GPLAN) is one method for alleviating the problems of data (event) inaccessibility and specific inquiry. The development of the data structure for use in filing the information generated during a simulation, the description of this structure to GPLAN via the data description language, and the use of the structure through the data manipulation language commands for storing and retrieving the information are described. The expanded capabilities for investigating the model become evident upon the description of the reports and the ease with which the reports may be expanded due to the modular design of the data base program. Also the modeler's investigation of some portion of the system or the entire system is enhanced since through the data base any piece of information that has been stored can be easily accessed. The result indicates that a data base management system can be used successfully to augment the use of simulation in the investigation of a complex system. Considerations regarding the computer execution time and storage are also presented.