The development of a product starts with a model. It’s how creators describe the item’s benefits to managers and investors. In the past, this was done through engineering drawings done by-hand, CAD programs, or spreadsheets.

That changed in the 21st century. Today, companies look at data-driven simulations to help guide them in the production process. These use information influenced by real-time input changes the way a product looks and acts. This form of simulation provides greater analysis and more accurate predictions of how something will operate.

Data-driven simulation isn’t only utilized for large companies or technology-based organizations. It’s also used for businesses like yours. Whether it’s the introduction of a new product or a look at your new headquarters, these simulations can be regularly used. Here are 4 examples.

3D Visualization

The art and technology of 3D visualization go beyond what CAD programs do. Items created through this package is CGI-rendered. It has the height, width, and depth of a physical product.

You utilize 3D visualization to present a product to your investors or departments instead of a simulation made of clay or metal. Since it is data-driven, how it looks and operates is adjustable at the moment of the presentation.

3D visualization programs go beyond technical aspects. It takes an artist to handle the design. In those situations, you want to outsource the digital representation to companies like Spatial. They have subject matter experts on both technical and artistic fronts.

Construction

Blueprints don’t tell the complete story of a construction project. You can see the walls and how rooms are designed, but there’s a lot missing. For instance, how the network is fed across the building. Or where the utilities are placed.

This is clearly seen when you choose to display the new construction through data-driven simulations. Instead of a one-dimensional display, the digital version shows your building in different ways. With one toggle it reveals how fiber optic cables flow across each floor. Another toggle switches to a view of the HVAC setup.

The advantage of a data-driven simulation is you can make adjustments at the time of review. You can see how the building configuration works if the network equipment is on a higher floor. Additionally, you can view what your utilities would look like if you decided on a tankless water heater setup.

Network Configuration

As mentioned, data-driven simulations are a great way to see how a computer network should be designed. It’s not only for the cables that come from the firewall and router. With this type of computer program, you also see other elements.

For example, you can add or change where the extended access points go to maintain network connectivity throughout the building. It’s also where you move around printers and other shared network peripherals. The enhanced design lets you see if there are any blocks where changes in construction may be required.

Inventory Control

Data-driven simulations do more than provide a visual examination of construction. It also displays information for revenue-generating items. Inventory is one sample.

To develop such a model you take a snapshot of current inventory levels. Next, add sales versus returns, order lead times, and the cost of each item. This produces an optimal simulation of current trends and what could be needed to enhance procedures.

Greater accuracy is achieved as more data points are added. You could include the amount of time an item remains on the shelf or the size of your warehouse. Each item enhances the simulation for service levels in the high 90 percent range.

There’s a lot to like about data-driven simulations. They definitely present more detailed information than in previous generations. However, reaching those accuracy levels requires education.

Don’t delve into data-driven simulations or choose a company that does so until you’re familiar with the process. You don’t have to be an expert on the subject. Rather, learn as much as you can so you have an understanding when you bring in a company or decide to start a project on your own.

The more you know about it, the easier it is to determine how many data points are needed for the greatest accuracy. In the end, it will make you and your business more efficient.