Selection of input models using bootstrap goodness-of-fit

Bootstrap methods are a natural adjunct of computer simulation experiments; both use resampling techniques to construct the statistical distributions of quantities of interest. In this paper we consider how bootstrap methods can be used in selecting appropriate input models for use in a computer simulation experiment. The proposed method uses a goodness-of-fit statistic to decide on which of several competing input models should be used. We use bootstrapping to find the distribution of the test statistic under different assumptions as to which model is the correct fit. This allows the quality of fit of the different models to be compared. The bootstrapping process can be extended to the simulation experiment itself, allowing the effect of variability of estimated parameters on the simulation output to be assessed. The methodology is described and illustrated by application to a queueing example investigating the delays experienced by motorists caused by toll booths at a bridge river crossing.