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Integrated Solution Support System - Aquastress          

Factsheet: Integrated, complex modelling

 

Definition

Within systems analysis, process simulation models are often applied to simulate system behaviour (bio-physical or socio-economical) in one domain over time and space. Integrated complex modelling refers (within AquaStress) to the combination of process simulation models, in a way that accommodates process interaction and feedback between the various model components.

Application objectives

Detailed analysis of interacting domains (e.g. groundwater – surface water – water quality - users – polluters – infrastructure operators).

Pertinent participation process phase(s)

1- Starting organization

2- Actors analysis, context

3- Diagnostic of the current situation

4- Search of solutions

5- Implementation, evaluation

Application method

The real world situation is captured in spatial entities as offered by simulation software package. While experts and analysts will conduct a major part of the exercise, local participants may join the visual modelling exercise to provide their view on relevant entities and interactions within the real world system.

Application example(s)

Most activities involving water resources planning incorporate some kind of integrated complex modelling.

Example tools

Numerous tools/suites for complex integrated modelling are available. Some examples:

  • WEAP21: WEAP ("Water Evaluation And Planning" system) is a user-friendly software tool that takes an integrated approach to water resources planning. www.weap21.org
    MikeBasin: For addressing water allocation, conjunctive use, reservoir operation, or water quality issues,
  • MIKE BASIN couples the power of ArcGIS with comprehensive hydrologic modeling to provide basin-scale solutions. http://www.dhigroup.com/Software/WaterResources/MIKEBASIN.aspx
  • MikeSHE: MIKE SHE is a dynamic, user-friendly modeling tool that can simulate the entire land phase of the hydrologic cycle. MIKE SHE is an integrated modeling environment that allows components to be used independently and customized to local needs. http://www.dhigroup.com/Software/WaterResources/MIKESHE.aspx
  • RIBASIM: RIBASIM (River Basin Simulation Model) is a generic model package for analyzing the behaviour of river basins under various hydrological conditions. The model package is a comprehensive and flexible tool which links the hydrological water inputs at various locations with the specific water-users in the basin. http://www.wldelft.nl/soft/ribasim/int/index.html
  • WaterStrategyMan DSS - A comprehensive Decision Support System for the Development of Sustainable Water Management Strategies http://environ.chemeng.ntua.gr/wsm/Default.aspx?t=60#Deliverable21.4
  • ICMS: The Interactive Component Modelling System (ICMS) is a PC-based software product, developed to facilitate the rapid development and delivery of catchment science to catchment managers. http://www.clw.csiro.au/products/icms/about.html (Free to use)

AquaStress contact(s)

Contact: Peter Gijsbers, WL | Delft Hydraulics (peter.gijsbers@wldelft.nl).

Reference

Many books and articles are available on integrated modelling (tools). Following the example tool links will provide numerous examples and references.