Performance models for computer and telecommunications systems: maximizing the benefits

Abstract

Summary form only given. Telecommunications systems were among the first to use modeling and analysis to improve designs. Since those early days, researchers have made many advances in the technology and tools. Performance models have been successfully applied to a variety of other computer systems design problems. When we consider the current state of the art and state of the practice, are we satisfied with the results? What areas need improvement? We explore these questions by first considering some of the important research issues of the past. Which have been resolved and which need further work? Have advances in technology mitigated some of the issues while exacerbating others? Next we consider the proactive application of performance models during system design to resolve problems before they occur. How extensive is this practice? How successful is it? What are the barriers to more widespread use and what can we do about it?.