Simulation and Modelling - Old Questions

8.  Describe the process of model building, verification and validation in detail.

Verification is concerned with building the model right. It is utilized in comparison of the conceptual model to the computer representation that implements that conception.

Validation is concerned with building the right model. It is utilized to determine that a model is an accurate representation of the real system. It is usually achieved through the calibration of the model. 

Fig: Model building, verification and validation

1.The first step in model building consists of observing the real system and the interactions among its various components and collecting data on its behavior.

2.The second step in model building is the construction of a conceptual model – a collection of assumptions on the components and the structure of the system, plus hypotheses on the values of model input parameters, illustrated by the above figure.

3.The third step is the translation of the operational model into a computer recognizable form- the computerized model.

Model building, verification and validation is not a linear process. Will return to each many step while building, verification and validation of model.