Brahms is a simulation program for modeling work practices--the combination of facilities, organization, tools, and processes by which work gets done, in contrast with system dynamic models that aggregate agent behaviors and process simulation models that idealize functions and logistics.

The program was originally invented by Clancey, Sierhuis, Torok, van Hoof, and Sachs through the partnership of the Institute for Research on Learning and NYNEX Science and Technology.  It is developed and distributed by NASA Ames Research Center for government and academic purposes. Commercial licenses are available through Ejenta.com.

The name was humorously coined by Dave Torok, one of the original designers, after "Business Redesign Agent-based Holistic Modeling System" (e.g., "use Brahms and everyone will be singing in the same key").

Brahms has its own modeling language, which is compiled for simulation by an engine implemented in Java.

The program is intended to be used for work systems redesign, instruction, research on cognitive and social processes of work, and for implementing "software agents."

For details about the Brahms language and its applications, see:

• Clancey, W.J., Sachs, P., Sierhuis, M., & van Hoof, R. (1998) Brahms: simulating practice for work systems design. Int. J. Human-Computer Studies, 49, 831-865.
• Sierhuis, M. 2001. Modeling and Simulating Work Practice; Brahms: A multiagent modeling and simulation language for work system analysis and design. Ph.D. thesis, Social Science and Informatics (SWI), University of Amsterdam, SIKS Dissertation Series No. 2001-10, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, ISBN 90-6464-849-2.
• Brahms Research Publications
• Ejenta Documentation (Brahms Commercialization)

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