Troubleshooting common simulation errors and how to fix Them

Summary: This article explains common reasons why simulations may produce errors and provides guidance on how to address these issues.

Common causes of simulation errors

1. Multiple scheduling strategies:

   • Having multiple scheduling strategies can lead to conflicts, especially if tasks are scheduled and then rescheduled before there is enough time for them to be executed. This can result in simulation failures.

2. Presence of strategy slots:

   • Using too many strategy slots complicates the scheduling process. A strategy slot defines the time window in which a scheduled task can be executed. When tasks are not properly aligned with available resources across those slots, errors can occur during simulation.

3. Resource constraints:

   • Errors can occur due to resource constraints, such as when a vessel is not available for a task or when there are scheduling conflicts. This can prevent the simulation from running successfully.

4. Incorrect task assignments:

   • If tasks are not assigned correctly to the appropriate vessels, it can lead to errors. For example, if a vessel is set to perform tasks that it is not equipped for, the simulation may fail.

5. Unreviewed logistics utilization reports:

   • Failing to review logistics utilization reports can allow inefficiencies and scheduling conflicts to go undetected. These reports provide detailed information about tasks performed by each vessel and their durations, making them a key diagnostic resource.

Troubleshooting steps

• Simplify scheduling strategies:

  • If you encounter errors, simplify your scheduling strategies by reducing the number of strategy slots to one. Start with a single slot to eliminate conflicts, confirm the simulation runs successfully, and then add slots back incrementally if needed.

• Check resource availability:

  • Confirm that all required vessels and resources are available and properly assigned to their tasks. If a vessel is unavailable or misconfigured, reassign tasks to an available vessel before re-running the simulation.

• Review task assignments:

  • Verify that tasks are assigned to the correct vessels. Ensure that the vessels are capable of performing the tasks assigned to them.

• Review logistics utilization reports:

  • Open the logistics utilization reports and review task durations and vessel assignments for each scheduled operation. To access these reports, navigate to the Reports section and select Logistics Utilization. Look for overlapping tasks, underutilized vessels, or abnormally long durations — these patterns commonly indicate the root cause of simulation errors.

Conclusion

Simulation errors most commonly stem from scheduling conflicts, resource constraints, and incorrect task assignments. Follow the troubleshooting steps above to address each cause systematically. If errors persist after working through these steps, contact our support team. You can reach support by selecting Help from the in-app navigation menu and choosing Contact Support, or by visiting the support portal.