A Component Strategy for the Formulation of System Dynamics Models

摘要

A component strategy to the development of system dynamics models isdescribed. The approach concentrates on the formulation of the Forrester stockand flow diagram, and incorporates the concept of an interaction matrix to assistin the formulation of such models. The interaction matrix, together with anexplicit sequence of steps for model development, are described. This descriptionis followed by applications to illustrative problems. The strategy facilitates thedetermination of the quantities to be included as well as the existence ofconnectors between the quantities and the identities of the quantities andconnectors. The paper is accompanied by a companion article [3] in thisproceedings that formally derives the interaction matrix. The advantages of acomponent-based approach to model development include 1) reuse of thecomponents, 2) diminished dependence upon the competence of the model-builderfor the creation of quality models, 3) greater opportunity for managers/policymakers to build their own models from components rather than from scratch, and4) a development strategy that can be partially automated.