Modelling Approaches to Support Decision Making

Dear Colleagues,

A number of modelling approaches are available to support the sustainable management of ecological, urban, social and economic systems. These modelling approaches range from highly complex computer models simulating the dynamics of full ecosystems and large cities, to simpler system dynamic and network models, to participatory models which directly involve stakeholders and key players in the modelling process. Nevertheless, the adoption and impact of models in the decision-making process lags somehow behind for a number of reasons which range from decision-makers’ poor appreciation of the nature of modelling, to low acceptance of or trust in models, to the challenge of finding a formal role for models within well-established decision-making procedures.

This Special Issue focuses on the interface between modelling and decision-making with special emphasis of determinants of success or lack of. Both theoretical and case study studies are welcome which specifically address:

• Nature of the modelling
  • The types of model employed
  • The reasons for undertaking the modelling activity
  • The expected role of models in the decision-making process
  • How decision-makers and stakeholders interacted with the model and model results
  • How labour intensive the modelling activity was
• Empirical foundation
  • The theoretical and empirical basis of the model
  • What approach was followed for model validation
• Monitoring and evaluation of success
  • How success (or lack of) was measured
  • How model use and results were communicated to decision-makers and stakeholders
  • How trust in model use was fostered and evaluated
  • What you would do differently next time

Dr. Fabio Boschetti
Dr. Magnus Moglia
Guest Editors

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