A common question with regard to virtual simulation of axial/centrifugal pumps is how to apply the results of Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) simulations to identify design weaknesses and improve on the design. Such optimization requires the engineer to follow critical steps in creating and running a simulation, and then know how and where to look for room for improvement. This white paper provides guidelines for both the set-up and analysis, using the industrial water pump shown below as an example.