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Using System Dynamics for Agile Cloud Systems Simulation Modelling

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Strategic Engineering for Cloud Computing and Big Data Analytics
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Abstract

Cloud Systems Simulation Modelling (CSSM) combines three different topic areas in software engineering , apparent in its constituting keywords: cloud system , simulation and modelling. Literally, it involves the simulation of various units of a cloud system—functioning as a holistic body. CSSM addresses various drawbacks of physical modelling of cloud systems, such as time of setup, cost of setup and expertise required. Simulation of cloud systems to explore potential cloud system options for ‘smarter’ managerial and technical decision-making help to significantly eradicate waste of resources that would otherwise be required for physically exploring cloud system behaviours. This chapter provides an in-depth overview of System Dynamics, the most widely adopted implementation of CSSM. This chapter provides an in-depth background to CSSM and its applicability in cloud software engineering—providing a case for the apt suitability of System Dynamics in investigating cloud software projects. It discusses the components of System Dynamic models in CSSM, data sources for effectively calibrating System Dynamic models, role of empirical studies in System Dynamics for CSSM, and the various methods of assessing the credibility of System Dynamic models in CSSM.

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Akerele, O. (2017). Using System Dynamics for Agile Cloud Systems Simulation Modelling. In: Hosseinian-Far, A., Ramachandran, M., Sarwar, D. (eds) Strategic Engineering for Cloud Computing and Big Data Analytics. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-52491-7_6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-52491-7_6

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