An introduction to sensitivity assessment of simulation models. (July 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Norton, John
• Is Part Of: Environmental modelling & software. Volume 69(2015:Jul.)
• Page Start: 166
• Page End: 174
• Publication Date: 2015-07
• Subjects: Overview -- Sensitivity analysis -- Simulation models -- Algebraic sensitivity analysis -- Sensitivity index -- Emulators; Environmental monitoring -- Computer programs -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Computer simulation -- Periodicals; Digital computer simulation -- Periodicals; Computer software -- Periodicals; Environmental Monitoring -- Periodicals; Computer Simulation -- Periodicals; Environnement -- Surveillance -- Logiciels -- Périodiques; Écologie -- Simulation, Méthodes de -- Périodiques; Simulation par ordinateur -- Périodiques; Logiciels -- Périodiques; Computer software; Digital computer simulation; Ecology -- Computer simulation; Environmental monitoring -- Computer programs; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 363.70015118
• DOI: 10.1016/j.envsoft.2015.03.020
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1364-8152

Abstract

Abstract: In view of increasing application of sensitivity assessment (SA) to environmental simulation models, a relatively short, informal introduction to aims and methods of SA is given. Their variety, motivation and scope are illustrated by outlines of a broad selection of approaches. Methods based on derivatives, algebraic analysis, sparse sampling, variance decomposition, Fourier analysis and binary classification are included. Highlights: A concise introductory overview of sensitivity assessment (SA) methods for simulation models is given. A broad selection of methods is introduced informally and with no more mathematics than necessary. The motivation of the methods, their scope and their limitations are discussed. Derivative-based SA, algebraic SA, SA of dynamical models, sampled SA, regional SA and SA by emulation are outlined.