Spreadsheet Simulation of Priority Queues

Abstract

This paper develops a spreadsheet simulation methodology for teaching simulation and performance analysis of priority queues with multiple servers, without resorting to macros, add-ins, or array formula. The approach is made possible by a “single overtaking” simplifying assumption under which any lower-priority customer may be passed in line by at most one higher-priority customer. By increasing the number of overtaking customers, one at a time, the simulation model is extended to the “multiovertaking” case. These simplifying assumptions make such spreadsheet simulations (of more complex queuing networks) accessible to students, and so the paper includes teaching and learning strategies for the classroom. Performance analysis of single-overtaking versus multiovertaking polices is included.