Modeling tools are central to collaborative modelling processes. Modellers and technical analysts develop, enhance, and validate these tools via a collaborative process for the purpose of informed decision making. This means that the models must be both understood and trusted by the stakeholders and decision makers involved.There may be several stages in the development process of these tools. For example, it could begin with the development of conceptual diagrams to understand system relationships, and/or with technical analysts providing feedback on the available or necessary data and possibilities. In those instances where data are missing, expert judgement can be used with the agreement of the stakeholders involved. Several models may be coupled dynamically or using generalized functional relationships through a simple interface. Economic, social, hydrological, and ecological relationships may all be required.
There may be several stages in the development process of these tools. For example, it could begin with the development of conceptual diagrams to understand system relationships, and/or with technical analysts providing feedback on the available or necessary data and possibilities. In those instances where data are missing, expert judgement can be used with the agreement of the stakeholders involved. Several models may be coupled dynamically or using generalized functional relationships through a simple interface. Economic, social, hydrological, and ecological relationships may all be required.
Such analytical modelling tools are used to support the analysis of data, the generation of possible scenarios and options, and to support decision makers and stakeholders in evidence-based strategy making. The benefits of collaborative modelling are possible when it is recognized that each participant has an expertise. Although technical analysts are experts at developing tools and models, stakeholders understand success and failure of their system that are quantified by performance metrics, which they validate, and decision makers understand the critical trade-offs that need to be made and the decision space. As a result, wherever possible, stakeholders and decision makers should be directly involved in the construction of the tools, the formulation of scenarios and policy options to be modelled, as well as in the assessment of the efficacy of these options against the key performance criteria. To enable this involvement, the developed tools should be constructed using open source or freeware software that can ease their distribution to and use by the stakeholder population. Sufficient attention must also be placed on the visualisation and communication capabilities of these tools to facilitate the transmission of information to less-technically minded stakeholders.
When developed in this way, these analytical tools can be used to build consensus and assist stakeholders to reach a common understanding about conflicting interests, values and norms. Their perceived neutrality and the information they provide about the functioning system will be enhanced. A general rule of thumb is to keep two questions in mind during the model development process: (i) How is the model going to be used? (ii) Who will be using the model? Doing so shifts the traditional focus of model development from the technical capabilities of the model to those of the policy and decision making process. The involvement of stakeholders during the construction and use improves the quality of the both the model and decision-making process and leads to better informed decisions.
