ABSTRACT
The most straightforward method of adjusting existing models to accommodate a stochastic approach is an MS Excel add-on program, "Crystal Ball" by Oracle. This program works with existing MS Excel spreadsheet models to enhance its capabilities and expand the usefulness of the results. In truth, there are three products produced under the same umbrella: Crystal Ball, OptQuest, and CB Predictor. Crystal Ball provides a stochastic process, i.e. random sampling, to spreadsheet inputs. Crystal Ball relabels the blue static "inputs" as Assumption Cells. Hence, going forward, inputs which are modelled as probability distributions will be referenced as assumptions to remain consistent with Crystal Ball's parlance. In addition, the output of the model, which will then be a probabilistic output will referenced as Forecasts, again, to remain consistent with Crystal Ball parlance. Crystal Ball has three defined user interfaces: Assumption Cells, Decision Variables, and Forecast Cells.
