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Conceptual modelling

Conceptual_model_of_a_marine_food_web via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 4.0

Conceptual modelling is a visual representation of real-world systems, helping stakeholders understand and engage with complex problems. It plays a crucial role in collaborative problem-solving, offering a structured way to frame issues, identify key components, and explore potential solutions.

Developing a conceptual model requires decisions about its scope, level of detail, and assumptions—ideally agreed upon by both the modeller and stakeholders who rely on the model for decision-making. These models are often non-software-specific, focusing on objectives, inputs, outputs, key relationships, and simplifications to clarify system dynamics.

Beyond individual models, conceptual modelling supports participatory and collaborative approaches, helping diverse groups develop a shared language for problem-solving, and  planning and evaluation. Related approaches, such as systems thinkingsystemic design and systems thinking tools enhance this process, ensuring models are adaptable and aligned with real-world complexities. Conceptual models have many uses in collaborative decision-making, including supporting the development of detailed computer models and decision-support systems.

The resources below explore how conceptual models can be applied across different contexts, from stakeholder engagement to simulation modelling, providing insights into their benefits, challenges, and best practices.


Conceptual models – What are they and how can you use them?
This 2017 post by Andrew Powell-Morse provides a good introduction to these models.  He explores what conceptual models are, how they are most commonly implemented, and touches on a few advantages and disadvantages of using conceptual models in the realm of software development.


Universal conceptual modelling: Principles, benefits, and future directions
This 2024 open-access paper by Roman Lukyanenko et al. introduces the concept of universal conceptual modelling (UCM)—an approach that aims to make conceptual modelling as general-purpose and accessible as possible for both professionals and non-experts. The authors outline six key principles that support UCM: flexibility, accessibility, ubiquity, minimalism, primitivism, and modularity.


Conceptual modelling: Knowledge acquisition and model abstraction
In this paper, Kathy Kotiadis and Stewart Robinson examine the processes of knowledge acquisition and model abstraction in conceptual modelling. Knowledge acquisition focuses on understanding the problem and creating a system description, while model abstraction simplifies this description into a conceptual model. The paper also references  See also the related systems thinking tools page which provides more detail on the use of rich pictures and SSM.


Choosing the right model: conceptual modeling for simulation
Stewart Robinson explores the balance between complexity and simplicity in simulation models. Too much detail can make a model unmanageable, while too little can compromise its accuracy. Using an example from healthcare, Robinson defines conceptual modelling artefacts and outlines a framework to guide modellers in determining what to include or exclude.


Conceptual modelling: framework, principles, and future research
Roger Brooks discusses the challenges of conceptual modelling, often seen as more art than science. He provides a framework and suggests a creative optimisation process for developing models. The paper outlines 17 principles of conceptual modelling, offering practical advice for choosing the best model for a project and predicting its performance throughout.


Conceptual modelling is also integral to developing indicators  for sustainable and performance-based management. For guidance on developing programme-based outcomes or intervention logic models, visit the related page on developing programme-based outcomes models. Additionally, see pages on  systems thinkingsystemic design and systems thinking tools for more resources on problem sructuring and framing.

 

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The LfS site highlights on-line resources for those working with complex issues. It showcases the wide range of activities, skills and processes that collectively support constructive engagement, co-design, adaptation, and reflective practice.

The site framework has been developed through the course of my work and indicated resources are open access and freely available. If you would like further support to explore the implementation of these approaches then Will Allen & Associates can help link you with experienced practitioners.

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