While spreadsheets are good for aggregating data, static spreadsheet calculations are not accurate enough to estimate performance and make design decisions. Simulation is needed. Traditional RTL simulation is too slow and lacks the configurability and visibility to analyze performance. In addition, the RTL may simply not be available. Risks include over-design, under-design, cost increases, schedule delays and re-spins. Synopsys Platform Architect with Multicore Optimization Technology provides architects and system designers with SystemC TLM tools and methods for the efficient design, performance analysis and optimization of multicore SoC architectures. To accelerate architecture design, also take advantage of the Architecture Design Models, and CoStart Enablement Services.