Complex systems modeling

Abstract

Modeling is a necessary mechanism for understanding complex phenomena such as the messes this book is designed to help with. This chapter compares methods available for complex systems modeling. A method is then recommended for use in addressing messes. A framework for the development and use of such a model and an accompanying simulation is then presented. This framework is demonstrated on an example problem, with an eye toward using this approach to first think about, then act on, and finally observe our mess systemically.