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5.1.3 Need for improvement of quality by standardization
Agent-based models as well as simulation engines are often custom-
made and tailored for one specific application. This is fine for models,
but unnecessary for simulation engines. As modeling and simulation
should strive from art towards an engineering approach, it is obvious
that a general approach for describing agent-based models and their
simulation is still missing. Furthermore, 'the use of standardized
scientific apparatus is not only a convenience: it allows one to
divide
through
by the common equipment, thereby aiding the production of
repeatable, comparable research results' [88]. The envisioned refer-
ence model might close this gap and is a step towards some kind of
standardization.
5.2 General purpose of reference models
Accordingto[115] reference models are development guidelines provid-
ing standardized solutions for certain modeling problems of a (homo-
geneous) class of real systems. Although many definitions are along
these lines, Thomas points out that a clear and common definition
of the term
reference model
is missing [130, 129]. Reference models
are usually characterized by the two main attributes
universality
and
recommendation character
[130, 129].
Universality refers to the idea that a reference model should be
applicable not only in one special case but to a certain class of
problems. This characteristic can be found in various definitions
(cp. [129, p. 21ff.]), yet due to the fact that a reference model is valid
only within certain boundaries, Thomas denotes this characteristic as
'inexpedient' [130].
Recommendation character refers to the idea that a reference model
should serve as a blueprint or even as a default solution for certain
modeling problems. Like universality, recommendation character is
also subject to discussion, as 'for example, it is unclear how the quality
of a recommendation for a reference model can be verified' [130].
