Agent-based models and behavioral operational research

Abstract

This chapter sets out agent-based modelling as a promising methodology for behavioural operational research. We set out the links between existing modelling techniques such as system dynamics and discrete event simulation and offer examples of how agent-based models can be used to model the behavior of individuals. We show how existing system-level models can be “agentized” so that system-level behavior is modelled by the interactions of individual agents. This focus on the individuals in the system rather than the system itself opens up a rich prospect for the use of agent-based modelling within behavioural operational research.