In January 2026, Amazon Books published Bridging the Gap: Advancing Finite Element Analysis in Numerical Simulation by ESRD Co-founder and Chairman Dr. Barna Szabó. This 146-page collection of technical notes, written in an informal style, explores the important distinction between the art of finite element modeling and the science of finite element analysis. It highlights how both play complementary roles in numerical simulation and underscores the enduring need for critical thinking — especially now, as AI becomes increasingly integrated into our workflows.

The following is an author’s note about the goals of the book:

Bridging the Gap is not just a book about numerical simulations — it’s a call to rethink how we understand them. While engineers run algorithms and mathematicians build them, a persistent divide between the two disciplines continues to limit the full potential of finite element analysis (FEA). Drawing on years of teaching and collaboration with industry professionals, the author exposes how vague terminology, entrenched assumptions, and stagnant modeling practices have created barriers to progress. This book distills hard-earned insights into clear, technical notes that illuminate core concepts and challenge conventional thinking. As AI reshapes the landscape of simulation, Bridging the Gap urges a more rigorous, transparent, and interdisciplinary approach to modeling — one that’s ready for the future.

The book can be downloaded from Amazon Books in Kindle format, or ordered in paperback print:

For a full list of publications regarding ESRD’s simulation technology and theoretical background, as well as additional publications by ESRD staff, visit our Simulation Technology References page.