Old Dominion University ODU Digital Commons Modeling, Simulation & Visualization Engineering Modeling, Simulation & Visualization Engineering Theses & Dissertations Spring 2015 Toward a Theory of Multi-Method Modeling and Simulation Approach Mariusz A. Balaban Old Dominion University Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.odu.edu/msve_etds Part of the Computer Sciences Commons, Operational Research Commons, and the Philosophy of Science Commons Recommended Citation Balaban, Mariusz A.. "Toward a Theory of Multi-Method Modeling and Simulation Approach" (2015). Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), dissertation, Modeling Simul & Visual Engineering, Old Dominion University, DOI: 10.25777/a4d6-fq53 https://digitalcommons.odu.edu/msve_etds/30 This Dissertation is brought to you for free and open access by the Modeling, Simulation & Visualization Engineering at ODU Digital Commons. It has been accepted for inclusion in Modeling, Simulation & Visualization Engineering Theses & Dissertations by an authorized administrator of ODU Digital Commons. For more information, please contact [email protected]. TOWARD A THEORY OF MULTI-METHOD MODELING AND SIMULATION APPROACH by Mariusz A. Balaban B.S. June 2001, Lublin Technical University M.E. June 2001, Lublin Technical University M.E. June 2003, Lublin Technical University A Dissertation Submitted to the Faculty of Old Dominion University in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY MODELING AND SIMULATION OLD DOMINION UNIVERSITY May 2015 Approved by: Patrick Hester (Director) atherine M. BanksTMember) er) A flu to-*!, fAs tja (Saijcou Diallo (Member) UMI Number: 3663140 All rights reserved INFORMATION TO ALL USERS The quality of this reproduction is dependent upon the quality of the copy submitted. In the unlikely event that the author did not send a complete manuscript and there are missing pages, these will be noted. Also, if material had to be removed, a note will indicate the deletion. Di!ss0?t&Ciori Piiblist’Mlg UMI 3663140 Published by ProQuest LLC 2015. Copyright in the Dissertation held by the Author. Microform Edition © ProQuest LLC. All rights reserved. This work is protected against unauthorized copying under Title 17, United States Code. ProQuest LLC 789 East Eisenhower Parkway P.O. Box 1346 Ann Arbor, Ml 48106-1346 ABSTRACT TOWARD A THEORY OF MULTI-METHOD MODELING AND SIMULATION APPROACH Mariusz A. Balaban Old Dominion University, 2015 Director: Dr. Patrick Hester The representation via simulation models can easily lead to simulation models too simple for their intended purpose, or with too much detail, making them hard to understand. This problem is related to limitations of the modeling and simulation methods. A multi-method Modeling and Simulation (M&S) approach has the potential for improved representation by taking advantage of methods’ strengths and mitigating their weaknesses. Despite a high appeal for using multiple M&S methods, several related problems should be addressed first. The current level of theoretical, methodological, and pragmatic knowledge related to a multi-method M&S approach is limited. It is problematic that there is no clearly identified purpose and definition of the multi-method M&S approach. Theoretical and methodological advances are vital to enhancing the application of a multi-method M&S approach to address a broader range of scientific inquiries, improve quality of research, and enable finding common ground between scientific domains. This dissertation explored theoretical principles and research guidelines of a multi-method M&S approach. The analyzed literature offered perspectives related to the purpose, terms, and research guidelines of a multi-method M&S approach. A pragmatic philosophical stance was used to provide the basis for the choice of terms and definitions relevant to a multi­ method M&S approach were proposed. The degrees of falsifiability are adapted to the M&S domain, which allowed for developing complementarity principles as the theoretical basis of a multi-method M&S approach. Next, a blueprint of a multi-method M&S approach called method formats was derived, because transitions toward formats must seek justifications in order to increase research objectivity and transparency. A sample set of methods was explored in the context of a proposed sample set of criteria. None of the methods were evaluated with the maximum score for every criterion, which implied that if all those characteristics were required within a research context, then, none of the methods could provide the highest possible score without combining methods. Finally, a case study that included a multi-method simulation model was developed, providing a data layer for evaluation of complementarity principles. The case study contributed to the credibility of complementarity principles as a reason to use a multi-method M&S approach and value of pseudo-triangulation as a mean of verification of a selected approach. Copyright, 2015, by Mariusz A. Balaban, All Rights Reserved. With gratefulness, for my beloved wife ACKNOWLEDGMENTS There are many whose assistance and encouragement contributed greatly to the completion of this work. First and foremost, I offer my sincerest gratitude to my supervisor Dr. Patrick Hester, and committee members Dr. Saikou Diallo, Dr. Catherine Banks, and Dr. John Sokolowski for their guidance throughout the development of my thesis. The valuable suggestions offered by Dr. Jose Padilla and Dr. Andreas Tolk are deeply appreciated. Many thanks to Dr. Rick McKenzie, Dr. Yuzhong Shen and all MSVE department faculty members for help and inspiration. Moreover, special thanks to Mr. Trey Mayo for all the guidance, insight, and impeccable academic advisory. I would like to thank my friends and colleagues, including my fellow students in the MSVE department for sharing the journey during good and better moments. Special thanks to Dr. Krzysztof Rechowicz for all his assistance, help and encouragement. I would like to extend my gratitude to my employers and co-workers from MYMIC for a friendly work-environment and support, and for giving me flexibility in work schedule. I also need to mention someone who will never read this, but whose joyful face, loving eyes, and happily wiggling tale was there, always by my side, under the desk, keeping up with my demanding schedule and (not always) patiently waiting for some cheering puppy-time and refreshing walks. Thanks to my parents-in-law for bright times of laughter that kept my spirit up. Finally, the biggest acclamation goes to my wife, Dorota, for her patience, especially during listening to my countless and endless monologues. The love and care, support and help, inspiration and encouragement I experienced from her was the key to the completion of this dissertation. TABLE OF CONTENTS Page LIST OF TABLES....................................................................................................................... ix LIST OF FIGURES.....................................................................................................................xi 1. INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................... 1 1.1 Problem ................................................................................................................................ 3 1.2 Research Question ..............................................................................................................8 1.3 Research Objectives ........................................................................................................... 8 1.4 Research M ethod ..............................................................................................................10 1.5 Research Approach ...........................................................................................................11 1.6 Summary and Outline of Dissertation ............................................................................ 17 2. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY.....................................................................................18 2.1 Purpose for Using Multiple Methods .............................................................................20 2.2 Ambiguity of Terms Used .............................................................................................. 43 2.3 Review of Research Guidelines ......................................................................................51 2.4 Summary............................................................................................................................77 3. THEORETICAL BASIS OF MULTI-METHOD M&S APPROACH...........................79 3.1 Proposed Definition of Terms ........................................................................................79 3.2 Theoretical Basis ............................................................................................................. 91 3.3 Proposed Method Formats ............................................................................................ 106 3.4 Summary.........................................................................................................................122 4. ANALYSIS OF THEORETICAL BASIS USING CRITERIA.....................................124 4.1 Analysis ...........................................................................................................................124 4.2 Summary.........................................................................................................................135