How can you design simulation models that promote the greater good?

1 Define the purpose

Before you start building a simulation model, you need to clarify the purpose and scope of your project. What problem are you trying to solve? Who are the stakeholders and beneficiaries? What are the criteria and constraints for success? How will you measure the impact and value of your model? By defining the purpose, you can align your model with the relevant goals and values of your context.

2 Consider the alternatives

Simulation models are based on assumptions, simplifications, and uncertainties. They are not exact representations of reality, but rather approximations that can help you compare different scenarios and outcomes. Therefore, you should consider the alternatives and trade-offs that your model implies. How sensitive is your model to changes in input data, parameters, or structure? How robust is your model to different sources of error or variability? How do you account for the risks and uncertainties involved in your model? By considering the alternatives, you can evaluate the validity and reliability of your model.

4 Respect the ethics

Simulation models are not neutral or value-free, but rather influenced by the choices and judgments of the modelers and users. They can have positive or negative consequences for the individuals, groups, and systems that are modeled or affected by the model. Therefore, you should respect the ethics and social responsibility of your model. How do you protect the privacy and confidentiality of the data and information used in your model? How do you avoid or mitigate the potential harms or biases of your model? How do you promote the fairness and equity of your model? By respecting the ethics, you can improve the credibility and legitimacy of your model.

5 Seek the improvement

Simulation models are not static or final, but rather dynamic and iterative. They can be updated, revised, or extended as new data, knowledge, or feedback becomes available. They can also be challenged, questioned, or criticized by other perspectives or evidence. Therefore, you should seek the improvement and learning of your model. How do you validate and verify your model against real-world data or other sources of verification? How do you document and communicate your model assumptions, limitations, and uncertainties? How do you respond to and learn from the critiques or suggestions of your model? By seeking the improvement, you can foster the innovation and adaptation of your model.

6 Reflect on the impact

Simulation models are not just technical or analytical, but also social and ethical. They can affect the behavior, attitudes, and values of the people and systems that use or interact with them. They can also influence the policies, actions, and outcomes that shape the society and the environment. Therefore, you should reflect on the impact and implications of your model. How do you monitor and evaluate the performance and effectiveness of your model? How do you assess and report the benefits and costs of your model? How do you acknowledge and address the ethical and social issues raised by your model? By reflecting on the impact, you can contribute to the greater good of your model.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?