Follow these general steps to create and interpret simulations with Crystal Ball. The remaining chapters provide detailed instructions:
Create a spreadsheet model in Microsoft Excel format with data and formula cells that represent the situation to analyze (Quantifying Risks with Spreadsheet Models).
Start Crystal Ball (Starting and Closing Crystal Ball).
Using Crystal Ball, define assumption cells and forecast cells. If appropriate for the situation, you can also define decision variable cells.
For more information, see Entering Assumptions and continue on with Defining Other Model Elements.
Set run preferences for the simulation (Setting Run Preferences).
Run the simulation (Starting Simulations).
Analyze the results. See Using Forecast Charts for suggestions.
Consider using Predictor or OptQuest, if available, for further analysis.
Take advantage of the many resources available to help you get the most out of Crystal Ball.