Handbook of Real-World Applications in Modeling and Simulation

Introduction

Contemplating a National Strategy for Modeling and Simulation

At the close of the July 2010 Modeling and Simulation Stakeholders Meeting held in Washington, DC, a consensus was held among the 41 attendees: a national strategy is needed to advance the nation's newest technology, modeling and simulation (M&S). Called together by the Congressional M&S Caucus (headed by Virginia Representative Randy Forbes), this group was tasked with contemplating steps to a continued dialogue that would lead to a collaborative, cooperative focused National Plan. In essence, how does the government fully exploit, fully engage, and continue to develop this new capability at the national level?

As an M&S educator and researcher, I am compelled to respond to this task. As such, throughout this paper, I proffer my opinion and/or assertion as private views that are not to be construed as official, or as reflecting the views of the Old Dominion University. To begin this assignment, I thought it helpful to review how and why we have arrived at this national juncture. Briefly reflecting on the answers to these and other questions lends itself to proffering suggestions/recommendations for developing an M&S national strategy. This paper presents a succinct discussion of why M&S deserves national attention, where that attention should focus, and how those in the M&S community can support a national strategy to do just that.

A National Strategy?

Have you ever wondered what constitutes a national ...