Software selection for simulation applications is often time-consuming and costly, particularly if you get it wrong. Model developers often spend too little time evaluating current software. It follows that they run the risk of their models being inappropriate and consequently not fully implemented. Others may be overly concerned with software selection. The task should be methodical and only take a small proportion of total project time. This article proposes a structured approach to aid simulation software evaluation and selection, based upon personal experience of developing an architectural design model.

^*Karen Holder was awarded an MSc. in Management Science and Operational Research from the University of Warwick in 1988 and has since been working as a Research Assistant in the Development Division at J. Sainsbury plc, Stamford Street, London. She is also a Doctoral Research Student in the Civil Engineering Department at Loughborough University of Technology under the supervision of Richard Neale and Simon Austin, with Peter Miller (J. Sainsbury plc).

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