The relationship of dynamic entropy maximising and agent-based approaches in urban modelling

Abstract

Entropy maximising models are well established within the field of urban modelling as a method for predicting flows of people or material within an urban system. The dynamic urban retail model (Harris and Wilson, Environ Plan A 10:371-388, 1978) is one of the most well known applications of this technique and is an example of a BLV (Boltzmann-Lotka-Volterra) model. We define an agent-based model (ABM) of urban retail and explore whether it can be made equivalent to a BLV model. Application of both models to the metropolitan county of South Yorkshire in the UK indicates that both models produce similar outputs. This direct comparison provides some insights into the differences and similarities of each approach, as well as highlighting the relative strengths and weaknesses. The ABM has the potential to be easier to disaggregate, while the entropy maximising model is more computationally efficient.