Practical Considerations for Implementing Homeland Security Models & Simulations

Published

December 1, 2012

Author(s)

Charles W. Hutchings, Sanjay Jain, Yung-Tsun Lee, Charles McLean

Abstract

Modeling and simulation (M&S) capabilities support reasoning in many domains and can provide powerful tools for homeland security analytical needs. For example, these capabilities are particularly valuable in exploring systems which are inaccessible for direct observation and study or which involve significant complexity. Uncertainty and risk play a significant part in many homeland security problems, and computer models and simulations can be used to check assumptions and study variability in considering the performance of a system, process, or policy. The sound and efficacious (i.e., cost effective) use of M&S capabilities in solving problems requires an understanding of the issues being addressed, the M&S methodology, and the capabilities and limitations of the information that the technology can provide. Although U. S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) executives and program managers (PM) frequently address problems of all sorts, relatively few understand the advantages, disadvantages, and cost and benefits of using M&S as an analytical tool. This paper provides some practical guidance for executives and PMs to consider when deciding to use M&S as an analytical tool.

Proceedings Title

2012 Conference on Homeland Security Modeling & Simulation

Conference Dates

October 28-31, 2012

Conference Location

Phoenix, AZ, US

Pub Type

Conferences

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Keywords

Guidance, Logic Model, Infrastructure

Citation

Hutchings, C. , Jain, S. , Lee, Y. and McLean, C. (2012), Practical Considerations for Implementing Homeland Security Models & Simulations, 2012 Conference on Homeland Security Modeling & Simulation, Phoenix, AZ, US, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=912379 (Accessed April 18, 2024)