2974. What makes a ‘good’ policy simulation model? Findings of a systematic literature review
Invited abstract in session WC-23: Complex Societal Problems in Development, stream OR for Societal Development.
Wednesday, 12:30-14:00Room: Esther Simpson 3.01
Authors (first author is the speaker)
| 1. | Lisa Garnham
|
| Social Work and Social Policy, University of Strathclyde | |
| 2. | Clemmie Hill OConnor
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| University of Glasgow | |
| 3. | Gerry McCartney
|
| University of Glasgow | |
| 4. | Kat Smith
|
| University of Strathclyde |
Abstract
Computational modelling is an established form of analysis is increasingly being used to inform policy decisions in real-world settings. Despite the potential strengths of modelling, however, a significant body of critical literature has emerged, which questions the quality and application of models in policy decision-making. Working in an applied context, with policymaking organisations at national, devolved and local authority level, our research explores the use of modelling in a variety of policy domains. We report on the findings of a systematic review that asked the question: what makes a ‘good’ model when the aim is to support policy decision-making? We synthesise the findings of this diverse literature to describe what authors propose as the core qualities of a ‘good’ model and the development processes that enable these qualities. We conclude that, while there is broad consensus on what makes a ‘good’ policy simulation model for real-world policy applications, there is less critical reflection on the trade-offs between these qualities. The relative lack of perspectives from model users across this literature makes it difficult to determine what these trade-offs are and how they might be assessed to improve the quality and usability of simulation models for policy audiences. We reflect on our findings in the wider context of our current research engagement with organisations with direct or indirect roles in developing policy and our future research.
Keywords
- Complex Societal Problems
- OR/MS and the Public Sector
- Simulation
Status: accepted
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