Publication Details |
| Category | Text Publication |
| Reference Category | Journals |
| DOI | 10.1016/j.envsoft.2014.01.029 |
| Document | author version |
| Title (Primary) | Standardised and transparent model descriptions for agent-based models: current status and prospects |
| Author | Müller, B.
; Balbi, S.; Buchmann, C.M.; de Sousa, L.; Dressler, G.; Groeneveld, J.; Klassert, C.J.; Le, Q.B.; Millington, J.D.A.; Nolzen, H.; Parker, D.C.; Polhill, J.G.; Schlüter, M.; Schulze, J.; Schwarz, N.; Sun, Z.; Taillandier, P.; Weise, H. |
| Source Titel | Environmental Modelling & Software |
| Year | 2014 |
| Department | OEKON; CLE; OESA |
| Volume | 55 |
| Page From | 156 |
| Page To | 163 |
| Language | englisch |
| Keywords | Agent-based modelling; Domain specific languages; Graphical representations; Model communication; Model comparison; Model development; Model design; Model replication; Standardised protocols |
| UFZ wide themes | RU6 |
| Abstract | Agent-based models are helpful to investigate complex dynamics in coupled human–natural systems. However, model assessment, model comparison and replication are hampered to a large extent by a lack of transparency and comprehensibility in model descriptions. In this article we address the question of whether an ideal standard for describing models exists. We first suggest a classification for structuring types of model descriptions. Secondly, we differentiate purposes for which model descriptions are important. Thirdly, we review the types of model descriptions and evaluate each on their utility for the purposes. Our evaluation finds that the choice of the appropriate model description type is purpose-dependent and that no single description type alone can fulfil all requirements simultaneously. However, we suggest a minimum standard of model description for good modelling practice, namely the provision of source code and an accessible natural language description, and argue for the development of a common standard. |
| Persistent UFZ Identifier | https://www.ufz.de/index.php?en=20939&ufzPublicationIdentifier=14625 |
| Müller, B., Balbi, S., Buchmann, C.M., de Sousa, L., Dressler, G., Groeneveld, J., Klassert, C.J., Le, Q.B., Millington, J.D.A., Nolzen, H., Parker, D.C., Polhill, J.G., Schlüter, M., Schulze, J., Schwarz, N., Sun, Z., Taillandier, P., Weise, H. (2014): Standardised and transparent model descriptions for agent-based models: current status and prospects Environ. Modell. Softw. 55 , 156 - 163 10.1016/j.envsoft.2014.01.029 |
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