Adapted SCM matrix based on Stadtler 2005

The basic planning problems corresponding to the specific modules are briefly described as follows  

In general, these criteria often hold for planning problems with a rather long planning horizon. Therefore, simulation-based models are prevalent especially for SC configuration problems. Special classes of simulation techniques are distinguished. 

In this work the term simvlation refers to stochastic and dynamic models.K all components are modelled continuously, this is typically called a system dynamics model. Such a model is reasonable either at a high aggregation leveF or when all modelled processes are indeed continuous. The system studied is tracked continuously and its (aggregated) behaviour can be described at any point in time. 

In contrast, if the processes of the modelled system are discrete, the corresponding model is called a discrete-event simulation. Here, the system s states are calculated at a finite number of points in time. This type of simulation is often used for atomic simulations, i.e. when a system is modelled in detail.  

A third category are so-caUed agent-based simulation models. This sub-class of simulation models is characterized by a network of interacting agents. Each agent reacts to stimuli from other agents and environmental variables depending on mathematically formulated decision rules. This type of simulation is particularly useful to model interactions between interrelated, but independent entities such as business units, companies, or market actors.  

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