Unified modeling methodology for construction simulation

This paper discusses a new approach that will facilitate the use of simulation in the construction industry. Previous attempts in this regard have been hampered by the gap between the user and the simulation software, the power and flexibility of available tools, and the readiness of industry. A comprehensive new approach (referred to as the Unified Modeling Methodology), which addresses the complete needs of the construction simulationist, is detailed. It is based on several state-of-the-art concepts in addition to newly developed ones. This methodology also describes how all of these concepts can be combined together using object oriented principles. The methodology was used in the development of a complete simulation tool development and utilization environment called Simphony. Several case studies were performed to illustrate the advantages of the new approach.