Simulation model of activity scheduling behavior

The simulation model of activity scheduling behavior presented is influenced by recent theories of activity scheduling and production system modeling. The basic assumption underlying the model is that activity scheduling is a sequential process in which consecutive steps lead to the final schedule. Every step in this respect is modeled as a choice of an action to perform on a preliminary schedule. The behavior of the model was tested using simulations in different hypothetical spatio-temporal settings. The simulations were conducted repeatedly, varying the values of the parameters of the model systematically. In general, the simulations resulted in realistic schedules. The proposed approach therefore offers possibilities to model activity scheduling realistically. The next step, however, should be to develop calibration methods so that parameter values can be derived from observed behavior. Interactive simulations may be a promising technique in this respect.