Conclusion

Abstract

Computer-based modeling is not an “ad hoc science” where we could apply the slogan “everything goes”; on the contrary, it is, like software engineering, a discipline which must follow certain criteria of quality. These criteria are reliability to ensure correctness and robustness of models, and transparency to enhance model extendibility, reusability and compatibility. Reliability can be achieved by a unique notation, in which models are coded, by a formal specification of its semantics, and by introducing types, units and other checking mechanisms, in order to enforce domain consistencies. Transparency can be obtained by flexible decomposition techniques which fractionates the whole model into easily maintainable software modules and components.

“The best is yet to come. We’ve only scratched the surface...”

— Shannon C.E.