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Descriptive design structure matrices for improved system dynamics qualitative modeling

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  • Rameez R. Qureshi
  • David N. Ford
  • Charles M. Wolf

Abstract

Qualitative modeling approaches can be useful in system information collection, model analysis, and formal model development. This is difficult when the number of elements and their interactions in the system is large. System dynamicists need additional tools and methods to conceptually model these large tightly coupled systems. We propose and test the Descriptive Design Structure Matrix (DDSM) as a qualitative system dynamics modeling tool and approach for systems with many elements and more interactions that can reasonably be modeled individually using traditional system dynamics methods. A DDSM consists of four parallel and internally consistent matrices that describe system interactions with binary relations, nontechnical text, technical text, and literature support. By including and documenting system information in multiple forms, DDSMs facilitate multiple stages of system dynamics modeling, improve modeler communication with system participants and domain experts, and improve model rigor. DDSM construction is described. A case study of the 2014 flooding in Kashmir is used to illustrate and test a DDSM and its application. Due to their compact format, DDSMs provide a useful visual communication aid, intuitive reasoning tool, and foundation for formal system dynamics modeling and analysis. © 2024 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.

Suggested Citation

  • Rameez R. Qureshi & David N. Ford & Charles M. Wolf, 2024. "Descriptive design structure matrices for improved system dynamics qualitative modeling," System Dynamics Review, System Dynamics Society, vol. 40(4), October.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:sysdyn:v:40:y:2024:i:4:n:e1764
    DOI: 10.1002/sdr.1764
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    1. Kopainsky, Birgit & Hager, Gerid & Herrera, Hugo & Nyanga, Progress H., 2017. "Transforming food systems at local levels: Using participatory system dynamics in an interactive manner to refine small-scale farmers’ mental models," Ecological Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 362(C), pages 101-110.
    2. Eppinger, Steven D. & Browning, Tyson R., 2012. "Design Structure Matrix Methods and Applications," MIT Press Books, The MIT Press, edition 1, volume 1, number 0262017520, December.
    3. Ahmad Taher Azar, 2012. "System dynamics as a useful technique for complex systems," International Journal of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 10(4), pages 377-410.
    4. G P Richardson, 1999. "Reflections for the future of system dynamics," Journal of the Operational Research Society, Palgrave Macmillan;The OR Society, vol. 50(4), pages 440-449, April.
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    Cited by:

    1. Krystyna Stave & Nici Zimmermann & Hyunjung Kim, 2024. "Qualitative Aspects of System Dynamics Modeling," System Dynamics Review, System Dynamics Society, vol. 40(4), October.

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