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Towards an orientation framework in multi-paradigm modeling Aligning purpose , object and methodology in System Dynamics , Agent-based Modeling and Discrete-Event-Simulation
| Content Provider | Semantic Scholar |
|---|---|
| Author | Lorenz, Tobias |
| Copyright Year | 2006 |
| Abstract | Methodologies are built upon fundamental assumptions (called paradigms) which are rarely questioned within a respective community. When applying a methodology without being aware of these assumptions we risk accepting wrong conclusions (abduction risk). Therefore this paper proposes that the development of valuable simulation models strongly depends on the sound alignment of purpose, object and methodology. In order to align these dimensions and in the light of upcoming tools capable of multi-paradigmmodeling a clear conception of the available methodologies, their differences and suitability becomes a necessity. In the context of modeling and simulating of sociotechnical systems three methodologies seem reasonable. Next to System Dynamics (SD) these are Agent-based Modeling (ABM) and Discrete-Event-Simulation (DES). The following paper analyzes and compares all three approaches in order develop an initial concept idea for an orientation framework which aligns purpose, object characteristics and methodology for choosing and/or combining suitable modeling approaches. Introduction Reviewing System Dynamics literature, a clear problem definition or model purpose is the initial starting point of a successful modeling process. 1 Only with a clear purpose the modeler is able to focus on key aspects, define adequate model boundaries and choose an appropriate level of abstraction. Mostly overlooked however is the fact, that also the choice of a suitable modeling and simulation approach is an essential success factor that needs to be integrated in the early stages of the modeling process. Due to familiarization and (early) association with a specific modeling paradigm modelers tend overlook other paradigms or simply are not able to adequately differentiate and apply alternative approaches. The latter is about to change with the availability of tools capable of multiparadigm modeling. However, the ability to differentiate is still a success factor these tools simply cannot provide. Purpose – Object – Methodology Based on the fact that any given methodology comes along with a set of (implicit or explicit) assumptions (called paradigms 2 ) it is the central hypothesis of this paper that only by finding the best fit of the three dimensions: purpose, object and methodology, a suitable modeling approach can be found. |
| File Format | PDF HTM / HTML |
| Alternate Webpage(s) | http://www.systemdynamics.org/conferences/2006/proceed/papers/LOREN178.pdf |
| Language | English |
| Access Restriction | Open |
| Content Type | Text |
| Resource Type | Article |
