Scriptapedia/Concept Model

Concept Model

This script is used at the start of a group model building project to introduce the process of modeling and symbolism of a model to participants.

Status

Best practices

Primary nature of group task

Presentation

Time

Preparation time: 180 minutes

Time required during session: 45 minutes

Follow-up time: 0 minutes

Materials

1. White board or flip chart paper on easel with markers
2. Computer and projector

Inputs

None

Outputs

• Familiarity with stock and flow diagrams and causal links
• Understanding that maps can be quantified and simulated
• Understanding that models can be created for the group's problem(s)
• Understanding that the model is owned by the group and can be repeatedly modified and improved

Roles

• Modeler Facilitator to design the concept model
• Modeler to show and run the formal model

Steps

1. The Modeler Facilitator draws by hand the first version of the concept model on the white board. The modeler demonstrates/draws the tub with faucet and drain to explain stock & flow diagrams.
2. The Modeler Facilitator then projects the first quantified version of the concept model from the computer. The first quantified version of the concept model is identical to the first version drawn on the white board. Next, the modeler simulates and traces the behavior produced by the model.
3. The Modeler then elicits additional elements from participants adding one or more elements to the first version of the model on the white board to get an amended concept model (second version). Project the second version of the concept model from the computer. Simulate the second version of the concept model and trace its behavior over time. The behavior should be different, and the group should be told, “Behavior is a consequence of structure."
4. Repeat step 3.
5. The Modeler Facilitator summarizes the lessons as follows: the symbols that will be used, concept models can be quantified and simulated, behavior can be generated endogenously, changing structure changes behavior, maps and models can be repeatedly refined, and groups can own the models they create.

Evaluation Criteria:

• Participants are talkative, wanting to tell the modeler how the model is wrong and can be improved.
• Participants can use the symbols and terms of system dynamics to express their own experience and knowledge of systems.

Authors

George P. Richardson

History

First described by Richardson and Andersen (1995) and then published by Richardson (2013).

Revisions

None

References

Richardson, G. P. and Andersen, D. F. (1995), Teamwork in group model building. System Dynamics Review, 11, 113–137.

Richardson, G. P. (2013). Concept models in group model building. System Dynamics Review, 29, 42-55.

Notes

None