Abstract for: Enhancing Validity in Qualitative System Dynamics Modeling: Reflections on Triangulation and Member-Checking

The roles of triangulation and member checking as strategies for enhancing the validity of qualitative system dynamics modeling have been previously discussed. Nevertheless, previous research has seldom provided a rationale for how they have used these strategies. In this paper, we aim to discuss how to handle disagreements between data sources when using triangulation and member checking. Drawing from qualitative methods literature, this study reflects on definitions of validation and revisits the strategies of triangulation and member checking through two case studies. We argue that disagreements between data sources should not always lead to removing model structure, as this decision depends on the research question and study context. In future work, it is suggested that the implementation of triangulation and member checking be discussed through reflecting on the criteria used to handle disagreements.