Philosophical insights in system modelling: an application to the field of innovation systems

Han, Ungkyu; Kunc, Martin

doi:10.1504/ijebr.2015.069681

Cited by 7 publications

(2 citation statements)

References 37 publications

(83 reference statements)

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“…• A "dualistic" philosophy of system dynamics (Han and Kunc, 2015) is adopted, accepting the existence of an objective reality as well as the subjectivity of mental models and seeking pragmatic compromise. This approach, very frequent in current system dynamics practise, departs from earlier, more mechanistic approaches, and is more compatible with social science paradigms (Smith, 2011).…”

Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Using Qualitative System Dynamics Analysis to Promote Inclusive Livestock Value Chains: A Case Study of the South African Broiler Value Chain

Garcia-Dorado¹,

Queenan²,

Shankar³

et al. 2021

Front. Sustain. Food Syst.

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Livestock value chains globally are increasingly dualistic, with integrated market-leaders co-existing with comparatively disadvantaged small producers who, nevertheless, support rural livelihoods and food access, and can also contribute to more resilient supply chains. The South African broiler value chain provides a highly illustrative case study. The purpose of this study is to identify potential leverage points for policy intervention to support small and emerging producers in the South African broiler value chain, and to discuss the strengths and limitations of system dynamics approaches to promote inclusive food value chains. This study develops a causal loop diagram (CLD) based on semi-structured stakeholder interviews and policy documents. The main challenges, key variables and causal relationships between them are systematically identified. Variables are coded, generalised and graphically represented, and entry points for intervention and their links to existing policies are mapped. The challenges faced by smallholders in the context of our study can be characterised, using a CLD, as a set of interlinked and reinforcing dynamics which perpetuate existing disadvantages and reinforce duality in the value chain. Key policy entry points have been identified that could be targeted by a coordinated policy package, including: Direct support for infrastructure investment and input access through grants, subsidies or other policies; credit and liquidity provision for day-to-day expenses; creation of aggregation mechanisms for both inputs and outputs; regulations or initiatives that directly target the relationship of farmers with the commercial segment to improve access to day-old-chicks and, finally, training in business and technical skills. Although most of these interventions have been addressed at some point, implementation has been fragmented, failing to fully consider their complementary nature, thus undermining effectiveness. Existing approaches to consensus building and stakeholder participation in system dynamics research can present challenges when it comes to engaging with complex policy processes and issues of conflict of interest that are relevant in the context of smallholder promotion and equitable food systems, but there are promising avenues for addressing. Despite some methodological challenges, we find that there is considerable scope for system dynamics approaches to inform policy for smallholder promotion, even in contexts characterised by complex policy processes.

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Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Using Qualitative System Dynamics Analysis to Promote Inclusive Livestock Value Chains: A Case Study of the South African Broiler Value Chain

Garcia-Dorado¹,

Queenan²,

Shankar³

et al. 2021

Front. Sustain. Food Syst.

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show abstract

“…SD modelling is highly iterative and often involves qualitative and quantitative elements [ 54 ]. Apart from the quantitative aspects of formulation and simulation, SD modelling facilitates problem-solving, particularly when stakeholders are engaged [ 55 , 56 ]. Qualitative models can be used as a standalone tool for policy guidance in systems that have broad boundaries and involve multiple stakeholders, and where quantification is difficult, hampered by uncertainty, or restrained by time and financial resources [ 57 , 58 ].…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

A food systems approach and qualitative system dynamics model to reveal policy issues within the commercial broiler chicken system in South Africa

Queenan

Cuevas²,

Mabhaudhi

et al. 2022

PLoS ONE

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Global broiler production and consumption levels continue to rise. South Africa’s broiler system is dominated by commercial production and formal retail trade, with competition from cheap imports. Local broiler policies have narrow, production-driven, short-term aims for industry growth and national food security. However, these have unintended consequences that undermine the system’s future sustainability. Using a food systems approach, this study developed a qualitative system dynamics model of the South African commercial broiler system and used it to engage stakeholders in policy discussions within the boundaries of health, nutrition, and environmental sustainability. A problem statement and key system elements were drawn from a previously published qualitative study and were validated by 15 stakeholders via an online questionnaire. From this, a seed model was developed, expanded into a larger model, and shared in a modular format with stakeholders in virtual meetings, on an individual or institutional basis, for feedback and validation, and for discussion of areas for policy consideration. Refinements were incorporated into the modules, policy considerations were summarised, and crosscutting issues were identified. The model demonstrated the system’s complexity, interlinkages, feedbacks, reinforcing and balancing loops, and behaviour archetypes. The modular presentation format created a suitable platform for stakeholder engagement. Current policies focus on local commercial production, formal markets, and affordability without cognisance of the broader system represented by the model. Inequality pervades throughout the system. Commercial producers, linked to large supermarkets and fast-food chains, dominate the system, presenting barriers to entry. Affordability is unintentionally traded off against non-communicable disease risks through brining of most frozen products, and ultra-processing of fast-food items. Foodborne disease control is critical, given the proportion of vulnerable individuals, and greater coherence of food safety policy is urgently needed. The environmental footprint of broilers, whilst less than that of ruminants, deserves closer scrutiny based on its dependence on intensive cereal production for feed. This study’s food systems approach provides a system-wide perspective and a foundation for policymakers to develop more integrated and transformative policies.

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Measuring the R&D efficiency of regions by a parallel DEA game model

Zuo

Guan

2017

Scientometrics

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Philosophical insights in system modelling: an application to the field of innovation systems

Cited by 7 publications

References 37 publications

Using Qualitative System Dynamics Analysis to Promote Inclusive Livestock Value Chains: A Case Study of the South African Broiler Value Chain

Using Qualitative System Dynamics Analysis to Promote Inclusive Livestock Value Chains: A Case Study of the South African Broiler Value Chain

A food systems approach and qualitative system dynamics model to reveal policy issues within the commercial broiler chicken system in South Africa

Measuring the R&D efficiency of regions by a parallel DEA game model

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