A framework for characterising and evaluating the effectiveness of environmental modelling
Environmental modelling is transitioning from the traditional paradigm that focuses on the model and its quantitative performance to a more holistic paradigm that recognises successful model-based outcomes are closely tied to undertaking modelling as a social process, not just as a technical procedure. This paper redefines evaluation as a multi-dimensional and multi-perspective concept, and proposes a more complete framework for identifying and measuring the effectiveness of modelling that serves the new paradigm. Under this framework, evaluation considers a broader set of success criteria, and emphasises the importance of contextual factors in determining the relevance and outcome of the criteria. These evaluation criteria are grouped into eight categories: project efficiency, model accessibility, credibility, saliency, legitimacy, satisfaction, application, and impact. Evaluation should be part of an iterative and adaptive process that attempts to improve model-based outcomes and foster pathways to better futures.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2019 |
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Title | A framework for characterising and evaluating the effectiveness of environmental modelling |
DOI | 10.1016/j.envsoft.2019.04.008 |
Authors | Serena H Hamilton, Baihua Fu, Joseph H. A. Guillaume, Jennifer Badham, Sondoss Elsawah, Patricia Gober, Randall J. Hunt, Takuya Iwanaga, Anthony J. Jakeman, Daniel P. Ames, Allan Curtis, Mary C Hill, Suzanne A Pierce, Fateme Zare |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Environmental Modelling and Software |
Index ID | 70217883 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Upper Midwest Water Science Center |