Developing new mathematical tools to study discrete event systems has been a major focus in the fields of systems theory and operations research. This study discusses the two lines of investigation in DES research that have emerged: logical/qualitative issues and temporal/quantitative analysis.

Information previously available only in journal articles and research papers has been brought together in this outstanding text. Uses the unifying theme of monotone structure to transcend the two-perspective approach to DES-one stressing logical/qualitative issues and the other temporal/quantitative analysis-to encompass elements from both. Features notes and references at the end of each chapter.