Why should I conduct multiple runs with a microsimulation analysis?
Microsimulation tools utilize algorithms that consider and reflect the interaction of individual vehicles throughout the given roadway network. As a Stochastic Tool, microsimulation tools assign probabilities to many of the decisions drivers make on a sub-second level (for example; whether or not to make a lane change) for the purpose of better reflecting the randomness inherent in the field. Random numbers are generated within the microsimulation tool to account for the fact that drivers do not always make the same decisions under the same conditions. As a result, a fixed set of assumptions and known conditions could generate different output results in separate runs. To account for this, an analyst should perform multiple runs using the same assumptions and conditions, along with a statistical analysis to increase their confidence of the overall analysis results. Single runs that are not representative of the random nature of these tools will reduce the credibility of the analysis an
