Developing a discrete event simulation model using qualitative and quantitative data sources

This paper will discuss the development process of discrete event simulation models with regards to using data from multiple sources, that may be gathered both quantitatively and qualitatively, before being incorporated into a single simulation model. The aim of this paper is to more formalise the less discussed qualitative practices in simulation modelling. There will be a brief overview of where this has been touched upon previously in literature, before moving on to the most commonly occurring research methods and types of data gathered; and how these can be incorporated into a model. This paper will go on to consider potential benefits and drawbacks to this approach before presenting an application of how this thinking was applied to a research project.