Sensitivity Analysis White Paper

Abstract: Sensitivity analysis is an important component of simulation-based decision support because it helps analysts determine which inputs most strongly influence model outcomes under uncertainty. This paper organizes the broad sensitivity analysis literature into a coherent framework for use in complex simulation settings, with particular attention to military applications. We review major classes of methods, including local and global approaches, variance-based techniques, screening methods, derivative-based methods, and uncertainty quantification tools, and relate them to common analytical objectives such as factor prioritization, factor fixing, variance reduction, and factor mapping. The paper also discusses sensitivity auditing as a complementary perspective that emphasizes transparency, assumption tracking, and responsible use of models in decision-relevant settings.