[ewilliams]

ProModel is an excellent choice when AGVs, forklifts, or other AGV equipment must be modeled running along prescribed routes -- it has an excellent, convenient network-definition structure. ED [Enterprise Dynamics] is superb for 3D animation and for the power user who wishes to, and is capable of, building his or her own "atoms" (as ED calls them) to add to those which come with the software. SIMUL8, which is economical and easy to learn, is very good for introducing simulation as a previously unused technology into a company whose management is initially skeptical and wishes a low-cost investigatory investment alternative (low-cost in terms both of dollar cost and time-to-learn cost). AutoMod is excellent for complex conveyor systems; this software understands facility geometry and has superb back-end statistical analysis capabilities for the output (hence it is an appealing choice for the person who does not have a statistical package readily at hand. WITNESS is an excellent choice for modeling systems infused with "pull" (versus "push") logic, because many WITNESS constructs are based on that "worldview." AnyLogic is superb for modeling pedestrian traffic (e.g., how quickly could the stadium be evacuated in an emergency?). Among all these softwares, Arena and ProModel are the only two I'm aware of which have real, honest-to-goodness, full-fledged textbooks for convenient university teaching use. No doubt other experienced people (I've been simulating for 30 years, and have the wrinkles to prove it) could add many further thought-tidbits. Best regards, E Williams