The start of a new year brings a lot of expectation for the future. However, we shouldn’t forget the past, especially as now we have an opportunity to look back at some of the great blog posts that we published last year.
In the previous year, we published a number of blog posts on a large variety of topics and themes. There were blogs based on new releases, business processes, how-to and learning materials, our conference, and many more.
So, let’s just dive right into the best blogs of the year.
5. From good to great: a masterclass in AnyLogic modeling
Dr. Benjamin Schumann never fails to deliver, and he gave a great workshop aimed at all skill levels on how to practice advanced simulation modeling. So, it was a no-brainer that this was something that needed to be written about and in this blog post you can find a summary with key details from the masterclass.
Catch up on this post and then check out the video.
4. Randomness in AnyLogic: how it works and how to use it
If you want to know about randomness then this is the blog post for you. Here, you can discover how uncertainty and randomness are connected through various examples. Then, find out how to use AnyLogic with two different models (deterministic and stochastic) to determine randomness.
You can also learn more about reproducible and unique experiments including a very useful how-to video. So, check out this blog post if you really want to understand how models can be used to give you all the information you need to make informed decisions.
3. Importing data from external database – step-by-step guide
Simulation models are based on data. And in this blog post you will learn how to import data from an external database to connect to a simulation model and create a schedule using AnyLogic.
Importing data from Excel or Access, or SQL Server is straightforward, but if the data is stored in a database such as MySQL, it may involve a few more steps. Let this blog post guide you through the process step-by-step using a detailed example, illustrations, and simple language. After this you will be able to connect to an external database, configure the database connectivity tool, and finally create the weekly schedule yourself.
2. Solving the bin packing problem in warehousing and logistics
The bin packing problem is one that affects many businesses and can result in delays or increased costs among other problems. In this blog post inspired by Decision Lab, the question of how best to solve this problem is answered. Comparing computer-based packing techniques Decision Lab set out to find the most effective one.
In the blog post, read more about mathematical optimization, reinforcement learning, and simulation. Later on in the text, you will have the chance to watch a video with more detailed analysis and find out the results.
1. How to become a simulation model developer
In our most popular blog post of the year, and quite appropriately, you will discover more about becoming a simulation modeler. If you want to find out what exactly simulation modelers do, then you have come to the right place.
If you are unsure whether you have the abilities or knowledge to become a specialist in this area, then this is where you can find out. It may seem daunting thinking about becoming a modeler, but after reading through this blog post you’ll discover that once you start and set your mind to doing it, then it isn’t all that hard.
We hope you enjoyed having a look back at the top blog posts from last year. There are many other terrific ones that didn’t quite make the top 5 cut, but you can always check out our blog page and find some interesting ones that you might like to read or re-read.
We will continue to post consistently so make sure to visit our site regularly to not miss out on anything. You can also subscribe to our monthly newsletter to get the latest blog posts and model of the month delivered directly to your mailbox.
So, that’s all for the first post of the year. We hope you enjoyed having a look back and we look forward to having a great year ahead.
