Modeling

System representation of indicative relationships allowing for hypothesis testing. The attempt to explore real-world relationships within a computer model. Involves defining and quantifying relationships and building these into an internally self-consistent model that can then be subject to various forms of manipulation. There are many ways to categorize the numerous types and methods of modeling. One of the most useful ways of classifying models is by function or purpose: 1 Descriptive modeling measures and describes environmental states and structures at different scales. 2. Explanatory modeling determines the processes and flows (matter, energy, money) contributing to a problem and how can they be directed towards the objectives, to determine interactivity within the model, causes and effects, and tendencies for change. 3. Predictive modeling attempts to assess and predict the potential impacts of the options and preferred impacts/outcomes of the objectives. 4. Prescriptive modeling defines and recommends policy or procedural conditions for the preferred outcomes, such as sustainable management procedures. 5. Evaluative modeling to test the model and monitor environmental changes.