2011 Publications
Journal Publications.
[1] Virtual ED’ – Utilisation of a Discrete Event Simulation-based Framework in identifying ‘real-time’ strategies to improve Patient Experience Times in an Emergency Department, 2011
Waleed Abo-Hamad, John McInerney, and Amr Arisha
Emergency Medicine Journal, Volume28, Pages: A3-A4
Emergency Medicine Journal, Volume28, Pages: A3-A4
Abstract
Emergency Department (ED) overcrowding and associated excessive Patient Experience Times (PETs)have proven deleterious impacts on patient mortality, morbidity and overall length of hospital stay. Health systems constantly seek cost effective organisational strategies to reduce ED crowding and improve patient outcomes, but complex change implementation is constrained by the necessity of maintaining concurrent safe patient care. Computer modelling in a “virtual reality” has been successfully utilised in industries outside medicine, in providing innovative “real time” solutions to outdated practices. Therefore a bespoke “Virtual ED” computer model, based on a Discrete Event Simulation (DES) -Based Framework was constructed to determine the best simulation scenarios needed for effective “real-time” strategies to improve PETs in a Dublin teaching hospital ED. The three simulation scenarios tested were: (1) Increasing medical staffing. (2) Increasing assessment space. (3) Enforcing the national 6-h boarding limit.
[2] Simulation Optimisation Methods in Supply Chain Applications: A Review, 2011
Waleed Abo-Hamad, Amr Arisha
Irish Journal of Management., Volume30, Issue 2, Pages: 95-124
Irish Journal of Management., Volume30, Issue 2, Pages: 95-124
Abstract
The competitiveness and dynamic nature of today’s marketplace is due to rapid advances in information technology, short product life cycles and the continuing trend in global outsourcing. Managing the resulting supply chain networks effectively is challenged by high levels of uncertainty in supply and demand, confl ict objectives, vagueness of information, numerous decision variables and constraints. With such levels of complexity,supply chain optimisation has the potential to make a signifi cant contribution in resolving these challenges. In this paper, a literature review – based on more than 100 peer-reviewed articles – of state-of-the-art simulation-based optimisation techniques in the context of supply chain management is presented. A classifi cation of supply chain problems that apply simulation–optimisation techniques is proposed. The main criteria for selecting supply chain optimisers are also identifi ed, which are then used to develop a map of optimisation techniques. Such a map provides guidance for researchers and practitioners for a proper selection of optimisation techniques
Conference Publications.
[1] An Optimization-based Framework for Complex Business Process: Healthcare Application, 2011
Waleed Abo-Hamad, Amr Arisha
Proceedings of the 2011 Winter Simulation Conference, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
Proceedings of the 2011 Winter Simulation Conference, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
Abstract
An optimization-based framework is developed to provide a decision support tool for healthcare managers who are facing major pressures due to rising demand, which is inflicted by growth of population, ageing and high expectations of service quality. Modelling and simulation are integrated with balanced scorecard to help in continual improvement of processes. Multi-criteria decision analysis was used to select key performance measures that align with decision makers preferences and stakeholders’ expectations. Integrating optimization within the framework helped managers to allocate resources in a more efficient way given the constraint of limited available resources. Due to the high level of uncertainty in care service demand, using the proposed integrated framework allows decision makers to find optimum staff schedules that in return improve emergency department performance. Communicating the importance of optimum scheduling has encouraged managers to implement the framework in the emergency department within the hospital partner. Results seem to be promising.
[2] DISTRIBUTED SUPPLY CHAIN SIMULATION PORTAL: DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION , 2011
Ayman Tobail, John Crowe and Amr Arisha
3rd Paris International Conference on Education, Economy and Society
3rd Paris International Conference on Education, Economy and Society
Abstract
The emerging paradigm of eLearning is becoming increasingly in evidence across many academic disciplines acknowledging the concept that learning processes no longer support traditional teaching methods alone. It can be argued that today’s third level education students are part of a new virtual era where the blackboard has been replaced with an interactive whiteboard. To assist in the transition from traditional learning to eLearning, more interactive and virtually orientated teaching aids are needed. A simulation-based learning framework that integrates web-based simulation and a web content management hierarchy model is the key objective of this paper. Using the highly complex subject of supply chain management as a case study, the new framework allows users to examine various management strategies of real-life scenarios, encourages group work and has remote access capabilities for distance learning. Interactive learning is facilitated using the web-based simulation portal, enabling instructors to demonstrate the complexity of decisions in multiple criteria environment and also show the users the impact of strategies on performance. Supply chain simulation creates an animated experience and better understanding of the system dynamics including risks. The portal interface is friendly and hence there is a potential to be applied in other subject areas.
[3] Learning by gaming: Supply chain application, 2011
Ayman Tobail, John Crowe and Amr Arisha
Proceedings of the 2011 Winter Simulation Conference (WSC), Pages: 3935-3946
Proceedings of the 2011 Winter Simulation Conference (WSC), Pages: 3935-3946
Abstract
Today’s third level students are of a virtual generation, where online interactive multi-player games, virtual reality and simulations are a part of everyday life, making gaming and simulation a very important catalyst in the learning process. Teaching methods have to be more innovative to help students understand the complexity of decisions within dynamic supply chain environment. Interactive simulation games have the potential to be an efficient and enjoyable means of learning. A serious interactive business game, Automobile Supply Chain Management Game (AUSUM), has been introduced in this paper. Using theories learnt in class as a knowledge base, participants have to develop effective supply chain partnership strategy to enhance their supply chain networks. Deploying the game over the web encourages student interaction and group work. Most importantly the game will enable students to fundamentally grasp the impact of strategic decisions on other parts and players of the supply chain network.
[4] Integrating Current State and Future State Value Stream Mapping with Discrete Event Simulation: A Lean Distribution Case Study, 2011
Amr Mahfouz, John Crowe and Amr Arisha
SIMUL 2011, The Third International Conference on Advances in System Simulation, Pages: 161-168
SIMUL 2011, The Third International Conference on Advances in System Simulation, Pages: 161-168
Abstract
In response to global recession and increased competition, organizations have tried to become more efficient by decreasing costs and streamlining operations. To achieve this, the philosophy of lean management has gained in popularity. The main obstacle organizations face when implementing lean is deciding which activities to implement lean principals on. A well known lean practice, value stream mapping, is a very effective tool in mapping the current and future state of an organizations lean activities. Limitations in calculating variability information that describe system variations and uncertainty means more powerful analytical tools are needed. Simulation offers a more thorough analysis of a system’s data, including the examination of variability and has the ability to change certain parameters and measure key lean performance indicators. Using a tire distribution company as a case study, this paper has developed a framework that uses discrete event simulation as an integrative layer between current and future value stream mapping. The framework maps current state value and non-value activities in the company and through simulation has highlighted the activities that should be used when developing the future state map. This paper has highlighted simulation as a crucial middle layer in value stream mapping that will generate more accurate future state maps than the more common practices of using random estimates and experience alone.
[5] ‘Virtual ED’ – Utilisation of a Discrete Event Simulation-based Framework in Identifying ‘real-time’ Strategies to Improve Patient Experience Times in an Emergency Department, 2011
Waleed Abo-Hamad, John McInerney, Amr Arisha
The Sixth Mediterranean Emergency Medicine Congress (MEMC VI), 10 – 14 September 2011, Kos, Greece.
The Sixth Mediterranean Emergency Medicine Congress (MEMC VI), 10 – 14 September 2011, Kos, Greece.
Abstract
Emergency Department (ED) overcrowding and associated excessive Patient Experience Times (PETs) have proven deleterious impacts on patient mortality, morbidity and overall length of hospital stay. Health systems constantly seek cost-effective organizational strategies to reduce ED crowding and improve patient outcomes, but complex change implementation is constrained by the necessity of maintaining concurrent safe patient-care. Computer modeling in a ‘virtual reality’ has been successfully utilized in industries outside medicine, in providing innovative ‘real-time’ solutions to outdated practices. Therefore a bespoke ‘Virtual ED’ computer model, based on a Discrete Event Simulation (DES) -Based Framework was constructed to determine the best simulation scenarios needed for effective ‘real-time’ strategies to improve PETs in a Dublin teaching hospital ED.
[6] SIMULATION BASED OPTIMISATION MODEL FOR THE LEAN ASSESSMENT IN SME: A CASE STUDY, 2011
Amr Mahfouz, John Shea, and Amr Arisha
Winter Simulation Conference 2011
Winter Simulation Conference 2011
Abstract
Due to their space limitation and small production scale, small and medium enterprises (SME) are vulner-able to rapid changes. Lean principles are considered as effective improvement approach to eliminate sys-tem‟s waste and inefficiencies. Although much of the academic materials have addressed the lean practic-es into large, global companies, they can still be adjusted to SMEs. Risks are usually associated with lean implementation process due to the drastic required changes in business policies and operations. Simula-tion can be successfully used to predict the impact of the proposed changes ahead of the implementation which helps to mitigate risks. Integrating simulation with optimization techniques provides optimum set-tings of the lean factors prior to the go live stage. In this study, simulation based optimization model was developed to optimize a set of parameters of lean SME against three performance measures – cycle time, WIP (work in process) and workforce utilization. Results showed constructive insights.
1346085457wsc2011.pdf | |
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[7] Integrating Current State and Future State Value Stream Mapping with Discrete Event Simulation: A Lean Distribution Case Study, 2011
Amr Mahfouz, John Crowe and Amr Arisha
SIMUL 2011 : The Third International Conference on Advances in System Simulation
SIMUL 2011 : The Third International Conference on Advances in System Simulation
Abstract
In response to global recession and increased competition, organizations have tried to become more efficient by decreasing costs and streamlining operations. To achieve this, the philosophy of lean management has gained in popularity. The main obstacle organizations face when implementing lean is deciding which activities to implement lean principals on. A well known lean practice, value stream mapping, is a very effective tool in mapping the current and future state of an organizations lean activities. Limitations in calculating variability information that describe system variations and uncertainty means more powerful analytical tools are needed. Simulation offers a more thorough analysis of a system’s data, including the examination of variability and has the ability to change certain parameters and measure key lean performance indicators. Using a tire distribution company as a case study, this paper has developed a framework that uses discrete event simulation as an integrative layer between current and future value stream mapping. The framework maps current state value and non-value activities in the company and through simulation has highlighted the activities that should be used when developing the future state map. This paper has highlighted simulation as a crucial middle layer in value stream mapping that will generate more accurate future state maps than the more common practices of using random estimates and experience alone.
1346320531simul_2011_8_40_50177.pdf | |
File Size: | 295 kb |
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