Abstract for: A Building-Block Approach for Enabling Modularity in System Dynamics

Simulation modeling holds great potential to improve the quality of decision-making through ex-ante exploration of “what-if” scenarios and decision actions. However, its adoption is often hindered by the significant time, resources, and expertise required to develop useful models. In addition, literature on the reuse of structures is dispersed, and procedures are informally retained in the minds of experienced modelers. To address these constraints, a building-block-based modeling approach (BBMA) is proposed. The investigation is guided by three key research questions: (1) How have modular models been achieved in SD concerning good practices and processes? (2) How can a modular structure be developed in SD? (3) What are the good modeling practices and trade-offs in achieving modular structures in SD? The questions were addressed in three research stages (RS) RS1 addressed the first research question by identifying four key design requirements: (1) pre-defined functionality, (2) standardized interfaces, (3) independence, and (4) hierarchical composition. RS2 addressed the second research question by modularizing stock-and-flow structures resulting in two SD models and a seven-step development process. RS3 addressed the third question by addressing critical decisions, synergies, and trade-offs in modular model building. This research advances simulation modeling by formalizing design requirements for reusable and modular SD structures, enhancing efficiency and scalability. Additionally, the practical application of BBMA and its critical evaluation provide insights into good practices, trade-offs, and steps for achieving modularization, paving the way for broader adoption of structured modeling approaches in the SD community. ChaptGPT and Grammarly in order to improve readability and language.