Comparison
Deterministic vs Stochastic Simulation
Most simulation environments assume an ideal world. Stochastic simulation includes deviations derived from historical behavior—so you choose decisions that survive reality.
Section
Assumptions
Deterministic
- Fixed times
- No variability unless manually scripted
- One outcome per scenario
Stochastic
- Standards + deviations from historical data
- Random events modeled statistically (e.g., failures, delays)
- Outcome distributions, not only single numbers
Section
Decision quality
Deterministic
- Optimizes for the ideal world
- Often breaks under volatility
- Hidden risk exposure
Stochastic
- Optimizes for robustness
- Quantifies risk and sensitivity
- Supports fast re-planning under constraints