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System dynamics problem definition as an evolutionary process using the concept of ambiguity
Author(s) -
Mashayekhi Ali N.,
Ghili Soheil
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
system dynamics review
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.491
H-Index - 57
eISSN - 1099-1727
pISSN - 0883-7066
DOI - 10.1002/sdr.1469
Subject(s) - ambiguity , computer science , process (computing) , system dynamics , basis (linear algebra) , dynamics (music) , process dynamics , artificial intelligence , management science , mathematics , engineering , physics , geometry , operating system , acoustics , programming language
Problem definition is the most important phase of the system dynamics modeling process. In this paper, we propose an approach to enrich the problem definition process based on a continuous and conscious effort to elicit the hidden ambiguities of the dynamic hypothesis, and transform these ambiguities into questions. The answers to these questions would in turn sharpen the definition of the problem, and improve the dynamic hypothesis. We show how this approach can help in building models that are more suited to the real‐world dynamic problems and policy design. Finally, we proposed some guidelines for revealing ambiguities as a basis to problem definition and dynamic hypothesis in an iterative process. Copyright © 2012 System Dynamics Society.