The emergence and use of diagramming in system dynamics: a critical account

TLDR

The paper outlines the main ideas and historical development of system dynamics. The study reviews leading diagramming methods in system dynamics and outlines research directions on diagram communication, group model building, and their adequacy as substitutes for simulation modeling. The authors review and describe two main diagramming methods—causal loop diagrams and stock/flow diagrams—highlighting their advantages and limitations. The authors conclude that while diagrams alone are insufficient, they offer many benefits, yet a more rigorous research program is needed to evaluate their attributes. © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract

Abstract The paper reviews the leading diagramming methods employed in system dynamics to communicate the contents of models. The main ideas and historical development of the field are first outlined. Two diagramming methods—causal loop diagrams (CLDs) and stock/flow diagrams (SFDs)—are then described and their advantages and limitations discussed. A set of broad research directions is then outlined. These concern: the abilities of different diagrams to communicate different ideas, the role that diagrams have in group model building, and the question of whether diagrams can be an adequate substitute for simulation modelling. The paper closes by suggesting that although diagrams alone are insufficient, they have many benefits. However, since these benefits have emerged only as ‘craft wisdom’, a more rigorous programme of research into the diagrams' respective attributes is called for. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.