A method for the design evaluation of a system is described. The system is modelled and simulated on at least one computer. The model (1) of the system includes at least two functional units (40), each functional unit (40) capable of performing at least one type of task, and at least one scheduling unit (30), capable of assigning at least one task to at least one functional unit (40). At least one scheduling unit (30) is capable of assigning tasks to plural targets, wherein each target either is a functional unit (40) or a scheduling unit (30). Preferentially, the system is simulated by taking into account only instants of time (81) at which a state of the model (1) changes. External and internal stimuli (50) may be included in the simulation. The method may be used for optimizing the design of a system.