Investigating the use of software requirements engineering techniques in simulation modelling

Abstract

The utility and benefits of a well-defined requirements engineering process are cited in many articles describing software engineering research and similar industry studies. In this paper, we consider to what extent the modelling and simulation (M&S) community employs software requirements engineering (SRE) in the model development process and, based on our observations, suggest the inclusion of several SRE activities within an M&S life-cycle model. We motivate the desirability of having an SRE component by first outlining current SRE models and their touted benefits. To help formulate a reasoned conclusion, we examined several recent M&S books and three M&S life-cycle models for references to requirements in the M&S activities. Our findings, also outlined in this paper, indicate that the use of any formal SRE activities within M&S development and analysis is minimal, with the possible exception of military and government projects. Nonetheless, our investigation has also uncovered some recent changes that point to a rise in the awareness of the need for a more formal well-defined approach to SRE in the M&S model development process. We build on that awareness by suggesting a refined M&S life-cycle model that incorporates several of the more prominent SRE activities. The potential benefits of and additional opportunities for increased SRE use are also discussed.