Rigorously interpreted quotation analysis for evaluating causal loop diagrams in late‐stage conceptualization. (6th March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tomoaia‐Cotisel, Andrada; Allen, Samuel D.; Kim, Hyunjung; Andersen, David; Chalabi, Zaid
• Is Part Of: System dynamics review. Volume 38:Number 1(2022)
• Page Start: 41
• Page End: 80
• Publication Date: 2022-03-06
• Subjects: Engineering -- Mathematical models -- Periodicals; Dynamics -- Periodicals; System analysis -- Periodicals; Ingénierie -- Modèles mathématiques -- Périodiques; Dynamique -- Périodiques; Systèmes, Analyse de -- Périodiques; 003
• DOI: 10.1002/sdr.1701
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0883-7066

Abstract

Abstract: As a field, system dynamics has made more progress in developing formal model evaluation methods that use quantitative data than ones that use qualitative data. This article describes a formal method for evaluating a causal loop diagram (CLD) in late‐stage conceptualization – referred to as rigorously interpreted quotation analysis – and illustrates its application in a case study. The method uses a systematic and explicit interpretive process to confirm or disconfirm all diagram elements in a CLD by comparing it to stakeholders' verbatim descriptions of their experiences in a complex dynamic situation. In so doing, this method enables the resolution of discrepancies between a CLD and qualitative data, building confidence in the structural aspects of a dynamic hypothesis. It does so via a process that is approachable for experts and stakeholders alike. © 2022 System Dynamics Society.