Abstract: A hierarchical database system and method is provided for providing data to populate a simulated computer environment. The data is organized according to a data schema that defines different types of records and record relationships in the database. The system includes a database which includes, records defining simulated components in a simulated computer environment and links which define hierarchical relationships between the records. Database code is also included. The database code is programmed to add, delete, modify, and retrieve records and links of the database. The database code is also capable of being integrated with a software module for maintaining and generating the simulated computer environment. A method for automatically populating records of the database from configuration information for an actual computer system is also provided.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for simulating a computer environment and evaluating a user's performance within a simulation which uses the computer environment. The method reads base data which defines a simulated component within a simulated computer environment. Initial condition data may also be read to modify a simulated component. The simulated computer environment is represented by executing one or more simulators to simulate actual software modules. A simulation is presented to a user. The simulation includes a scenario and a set of tasks to be completed. As the user interacts with the simulators, tasks completed by the user are recorded. Finally, the set of completed tasks are evaluated to determine a user's performance within the simulation. The system and method allows a simulation author to automatically define a set of possible tasks for a simulation by performing the desired tasks in the simulated computer environment. The system and method provides a robust evaluation process for simulations.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for simulating a computer environment and evaluating a user's performance within a simulation which uses the computer environment. The method reads base data which defines a simulated component within a simulated computer environment. Initial condition data may also be read to modify a simulated component. The simulated computer environment is represented by executing one or more simulators to simulate actual software modules. A simulation is presented to a user. The simulation includes a scenario and a set of tasks to be completed. As the user interacts with the simulators, tasks completed by the user are recorded. Finally, the set of completed tasks are evaluated to determine a user's performance within the simulation. The system and method allows a simulation author to automatically define a set of possible tasks for a simulation by performing the desired tasks in the simulated computer environment. The system and method provides a robust evaluation process for simulations.

Abstract: A hierarchical database system and method is provided for providing data to populate a simulated computer environment. The data is organized according to a data schema that defines different types of records and record relationships in the database. The system includes a database which includes, records defining simulated components in a simulated computer environment and links which define hierarchical relationships between the records. Database code is also included. The database code is programmed to add, delete, modify, and retrieve records and links of the database. The database code is also capable of being integrated with a software module for maintaining and generating the simulated computer environment. A method for automatically populating records of the database from configuration information for an actual computer system is also provided.