Definition
Simulation is a method for studying the behaviour of a real or proposed system by conducting experiments on a model of that system.
Human Explanation
It allows analysts to explore how a system may behave under different conditions without first changing the real system.
Why it Matters
Simulation enables comparison of alternatives, risk assessment and testing of decisions that would be expensive, dangerous or difficult to examine in reality.
Conceptual Boundary
A Simulation is not an exact copy of reality. Its results depend on the model structure, input data, assumptions, level of detail and experiments performed.
Practical Perspective
Even a sophisticated Simulation can produce misleading conclusions when the model omits important relationships in the real system. Validation should focus on whether the model is adequate for the intended decision, not whether it reproduces every detail.