Conceptual modelling: Lessons from computer science

Ahmed, F; Robinson, S; Tako, A

Conceptual modelling: Lessons from computer science

Lookup NU author(s): Professor Stewart Robinson ORCiD

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Abstract

Conceptual modelling (CM) helps to determine the objectives, scope and content of a simulation model. It is widely agreed that CM is the most important phase in any simulation study. Despite its significance, it has only recently been recognized in the area of Modelling and Simulation (M&S). In Computer Science (CS), CM is also a pre-development phase for systems design when the requirements and objectives are being understood. However, within CS, there exist well-defined objectives, frameworks and quality evaluation methods for CM, and these have been in use for many decades. In this paper, we present a cross-disciplinary review of CM within the major fields of CS (Information Systems, Software Engineering and Databases) and make a comparison with M&S. The major contribution of this work is to highlight the need for a well defined process for CM within M&S along the lines of that in CS.