Abstract for: Creating Compelling Interfaces with Stella

Stella enables the creation and web-based deployment of model interfaces. This workshop will take participants through that process demonstrating both the mechanics of the software use and the principles behind effective interface development. There are no prerequisites for this workshop, but those who have not used Stella Professional may find it helpful to combine this session with the Getting Started session. Conceptually, the interface development process is significantly different from the model development process with the emphasis on packaging rather than developing model based insights. Mechanically, however, there is substantial overlap with many of the same components, such as graphs and tables, shared between both model and interface development. During the workshop participants will develop an interface for an existing model including a storytelling sequence that demonstrates how unfolding model structure leads to changes in behavior. Participants should bring their own computers, either Macintosh or Windows, and we will install the software for use during the workshop.