Modeling with Soft Variables and Limited Data

#systemdynamics #systemsthinking

System Dynamics models are commonly used for structuring complex problems and supporting decision-making. These models are particularly valuable in areas where limited knowledge exists, helping to describe nonlinear relationships and incorporate intangible elements. However, the challenge lies in quantifying these soft variables, especially when conventional analytical methods are not applicable due to data scarcity. This webinar outlines existing quantification methods, addresses open questions when dealing with soft variables and limited data, and presents a quantification framework developed during a participatory System Dynamics process.

Learning Outcomes
Understand various methods for quantifying soft variables in System Dynamics models.
Explore techniques to address data scarcity in participatory System Dynamics processes.
Gain insights into a practical quantification framework that balances data availability with stakeholder engagement.
Target Audience

This webinar is designed for System Dynamics practitioners, modelers, researchers, and others involved in participatory modeling processes, especially those working with limited data and intangible variables.

Presenters

Irene Pluchinotta is a Lecturer in Systems Thinking for Sustainability at the Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering, University College London. Her work provides formal support to decision-makers involved in multi-stakeholder settings for designing sustainability strategies and policies. She uses Participatory Systems Dynamics and Decision Analysis in inter- and transdisciplinary contexts, bridging methods and people.

Ke Zhou is a Research Fellow at the Bartlett’s Institute for Environmental Design and Engineering, University College London (UCL). Her area of methods expertise is system dynamics and systems thinking. She focuses on organizational decision-making and policy design for healthy, sustainable, and resilient environment.

Nici Zimmermann is an Associate Professor in System Dynamics at University College London. Her research addresses sustainability, city transformation and housing as well as organisational cognition, decision-making and change. Withing these contexts, she employs and analyses participatory research, inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration. In her work, Nici engages with policy, city administrations, social housing providers, NGOs and residents. She is a recipient of the Gert von Kortzfleisch Prize, a repeat strategy thread chair at the International System Dynamics Conference and has recently become a member of the System Dynamics Society Program Oversight Committee.

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