Definition
Terminating Systems are simulation models that run until a specific, predefined event or end-state occurs (e.g., a bank closing at the end of the day).
Why It Matters
They are analyzed using transient statistics, meaning initial conditions heavily influence results.
Core Concepts
- Terminating Systems:
- Have a clear start and end point (e.g., a retail store opening at 9 AM and closing at 9 PM).
- Start each period “empty and idle” (no influence from the previous period).
- Analysis focus: Replication analysis (multiple short runs).
- Nonterminating Systems:
- The state of the system at the start of a period is dependent on the end of the previous period.
- Analysis focus: Single long replication run with a discarded Initial Transient Phase (Warm-up).
- Determining Classification: If the system resets its state regularly, it is terminating. If it approaches a “steady state” where performance measures are stable over time, it is typically analyzed as nonterminating.