Validation Testing: A Case Study

Abstract

Validation testing provides the tool for building confidence in a model. It enables an analyst to verify the correctness and usefulness of a model and to gain better insight into, and understanding of, the system being modeled. Although important, validation testing is sometimes difficult to conduct. This paper presents the author’s experiences with using the model validation tests to validate a system dynamics model. The paper describes the tests and applications that were most useful in examining the validity of the model, identifies difficulties that can arise during validation testing and offers suggestions for reducing their impact on the process of model validation.