Using Qualitative Methods in the Conceptualization and Assessment of System Dynamics Models

摘要

The field of system dynamics depends heavily upon the use of quantitative data togenerate feedback models. This paper argues that qualitative data and their analysis dohave a central role to play at all levels of the modeling process. Although the classicliterature on system dynamics strongly supports this argument, the protocols toincorporate this information during the modeling process are not detailed by the mostinfluential authors. Data gathering techniques such as interviews and focus groups, andqualitative data analysis techniques such as discourse analysis, grounded theorymethodology, and ethnographic decision models, could all have a strong, critical role inrigorous system dynamics efforts. The paper describes some of the main qualitativetechniques developed by social scientists and explores their suitability in the differentstages of the modeling process. Additionally, the authors argue that the techniquesdescribed in the paper could contribute to the understanding of the modeling process,facilitate communication among modelers and clients, and set up a methodologicalframework to promote constructive discussion around the merits of qualitative versusquantitative modeling.