Black Box Simulation Optimization

The book "Black Box Simulation Optimization" by Ebru M. Angun provides a comprehensive examination of simulation optimization, an increasingly relevant topic in both academic and practical research. Simulation optimization is particularly useful when explicit mathematical formulations for real-world problems are too restrictive. In such cases, simulation allows for the numerical solution of complex decision-making problems that arise in practice. The book focuses on Response Surface Methodology (RSM), a proven method developed in the 1950s. RSM is known as a black-box method that is applicable to both stochastic and deterministic systems. The author addresses various methodological challenges that can arise when applying RSM, such as scaling the search direction, selecting the step size, dealing with multiple responses, and establishing stopping criteria. This specialized book is aimed at researchers and practitioners in the field of simulation and offers valuable insights into optimization methods.