Title: System testing using use cases for simulation model of an emergency room

Authors: Guodong Shao

Addresses: Manufacturing Simulation and Modelling Group, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8260, USA

Abstract: Modelling and simulation (M&S) is a useful technique for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) applications because of its non-destructive and non-invasive method of observing a system. Results of simulations are expected to provide reliable information for decision-makers, but potential errors may be introduced during M&S development. This paper identifies the needs of system testing using specifications for M&S applications and provides a novel approach of verification, validation and testing (VV&T) for DHS M&S community. System testing is an effective methodology that can help to ensure the functionality of an M&S applications. Use cases that specify requirements of a simulation system provide information necessary to generate test cases for system testing. System testing allows simulation developers to identify and fix defects much earlier in the lifecycle, which would greatly lower the cost. A case study of a hospital emergency room (ER) simulation model was introduced.

Keywords: modelling; discrete event simulation; system testing; verification; validation; use cases; Department of Homeland Security; hospital emergency rooms; healthcare technology; emergency management; resources modelling; patient flows; emergency incidents; resource deployment; triage actions; movement of casualties; casualty treatment.

DOI: 10.1504/IJAIP.2011.039743

International Journal of Advanced Intelligence Paradigms, 2011 Vol.3 No.2, pp.96 - 111

Published online: 30 Sep 2014 *

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