Abstract for: An Exploratory Study of Applications of SD and AB Modeling

Theory can inform us of the differences between principles and methods used to build System Dynamics and Agent Based Models. However, little is known about how the paradigms are applied in practice and the subsequent difficulties encountered. In order to assist the model developer in applying currently established methodologies, it is first necessary to examine what occurs in practice. This paper reports the conclusions of an assessment study of four different simulation projects, two of which used System Dynamics, and the other two Agent Based Modelling. Results highlight the methodological issues faced when building models with both paradigms. Furthermore, the results suggest that the more mature modelling paradigm of System Dynamics can assist in improving Agent Based Model building processes.