In operations research and simulation for business, which specialized language is specifically designed for simulating models of business activity and discrete-event systems?

Introduction / Context:
Business analysts often need to model queues, service centers, inventories, and workflows to study delays, resource utilization, and throughput. A dedicated simulation language streamlines building such models and running experiments. Identifying the right tool among statistical packages, database access methods, and general-purpose languages is essential for effective discrete-event simulation in business contexts.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The focus is on simulating business activity (e.g., queues, arrivals, service times).
• The technique is discrete-event simulation rather than purely statistical analysis.
• We compare domain tools and general-purpose software names.

Concept / Approach:
GPSS (General Purpose Simulation System) is a classic discrete-event simulation language expressly designed to model systems such as banks, call centers, production lines, and logistics hubs. Its block-oriented modeling closely matches flows of transactions/customers through service facilities. By contrast, SPSS is a statistical analysis package, DL/1 is an access method for IMS databases, and COBOL is a general-purpose business programming language rather than a simulation DSL.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Simulation textbooks cite GPSS for modeling queues, scheduling, and resource contention typical of business operations, confirming its suitability for business activity simulation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• SPSS: Focuses on statistical tests and modeling, not event-driven simulation.
• DL/1: A database access layer (IMS), not a simulation language.
• COBOL: General business language; requires extensive coding to emulate simulation features.
• None of the above: Incorrect because GPSS fits perfectly.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing statistical analysis of results with the simulation itself; assuming any business language is sufficient for efficient simulation modeling.

Final Answer:
GPSS