As well as financial modelling, spreadsheet software can be used for many other kinds of computer model:

• modelling supermarket queues
• modelling the stresses which will be borne by a new bridge
• modelling traffic flow in a new road system

Computer models are cheaper to set up than alternative methods that could be used to predict what will happen in a system, e.g. building a prototype.

Other benefits include being able to:

• make alterations and quickly see the outcomes
• repeat tests several times over
• learn from 'what if?' scenarios
• model dangerous situations safely

Limitations of computer models

A model is only as good as the rules used to create it. A mistake could have been made by whoever wrote the model and not every situation might have been considered – either of these issues could cause the model to give incorrect results.