Engineering and other professions have used these methods for several decades. This study was initiated to determine the feasibility of using computer simulation techniques to answer questions associated with customer service in CNPs. Results suggested that although the exacting procedures of computer simulation methodology present many challenges, simulation does have relevance in solving CNP operational problems. Simulation is a process that uses a computer to design a model of a real system. We use computer models to learn something about a real life situation that cannot be altered directly, either because the system does not yet exist or it is too difficult to change just for experimental purposes.
Simulation models can help explain, understand, or improve a system.
The purpose of simulation modeling is to help the decision maker solve a problem. To build a computer simulation model, we needed to document times associated with service procedures in an actual school cafeteria. One district school foodservice director from a small school district agreed to allow data collection for the research study. Children in grades four through six attended this elementary school. The menu consisted of choices of entrees, vegetables, and fruit items each day.