Modeling queues with simulation versus M/M/C models

This paper examines the performance of single-queue service systems using a combination of computer simulation and M/M/C queuing models. Our results show that the accuracy of M/M/C models is significantly affected by the assumptions supporting the models. Managers should therefore exercise caution i...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: YANG, Kum Khiong, LOW, Joyce M. W., TUGBA, Cayirli
Format: text
Language:English
Published: Institutional Knowledge at Singapore Management University 2014
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Online Access:https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/lkcsb_research/4993
https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/context/lkcsb_research/article/5992/viewcontent/ModelingQueues_2014.pdf
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Institution: Singapore Management University
Language: English
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Summary:This paper examines the performance of single-queue service systems using a combination of computer simulation and M/M/C queuing models. Our results show that the accuracy of M/M/C models is significantly affected by the assumptions supporting the models. Managers should therefore exercise caution in using the M/M/C models for designing queuing systems when the models’ assumptions are violated. Our results show that cost-centric and servicecentric firms should manage their queues differently. While cost-centric firms should target higher arrival load, single service session, and front-loaded arrival pattern for higher efficiency, service-centric firms should strive for lower arrival load, multiple short sessions and even arrival pattern for better service. In addition, both cost-centric and service-centric firms can consider pooling servers together and reducing the variability of inter-arrival and service times to improve both cost and service simultaneously.