2014 Urban Affairs Association Conference

The purpose of this roundtable is to discuss experiences and lessons learned in the use of system dynamics models to support shared decision making, particularly among diverse stakeholders with varying levels of technical knowledge. Sophisticated models of complex systems are increasingly prevalent and accessible. When well designed and based on solid science they are powerful tools, applying more extensive data and simulating more complicated interactions than even seasoned experts in a given subject can do mentally. The ability to test alternative interventions and compare plausible long-term trends virtually before committing significant resources in the real world has great potential to assist decision makers. The discussion leaders have been directly involved in the application of numerous system dynamics models, primarily in the areas of health promotion, disease prevention, and health system transformation. The conversation will not be limited to these content areas, however, as it will focus on issues such as how these tools are explained to audiences that may include math wizards and technophobes; how their use is facilitated in groups; challenges and successes in the application of models, and other related experiences of participants.