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As an alternative to quick qualitative modeling, we can also use the MODELER to carry out more sophisticated quantitative modeling - to integrate data in order to run what-if scenarios. To do this, we use the work areas "Quantitative" and "Simulate."

While a qualitative model only allows us to identify whether a factor has a high or a low impact, and a positive or a negative impact, and a more or less increasing or decreasing impact-which makes it possible for us to compare the impact of the factors on a selected factor-a quantitative model shows us what values a factor probably will have over time. Quantitative models can tell you how your revenue may develop, how long a project might take to complete, what the outcome of a process is expected to be, and so forth. Quantitative modeling is based on System Dynamics. It also implicates Discrete Modeling. Unlike other solutions, when using the MODELER we are not required to know the different types of factors that System Dynamics needs, or the rules that are necessary to combine them. All you need to do is to decide which of the selected factors should become level factor types (using their context menus), causing the MODELER to change the factor types of the connected factors, in order to generate a valid System Dynamics model. Level factors such as budget, materials or even motivation levels are connected by flow factors (inflow or outflow), which increase or decrease the factor.s value from the previous time step.

Most of our customers are actually not aware of the fact that they are using System Dynamics. They simply model their arguments using data and formulas in the same way that they would with Excel.

With other tools that are used for System Dynamics, it takes users hours-if not days-for them to get their first running model, and also to truly understand the principle behind the stock (synonymous for level) and flow diagrams.

The MODELER comes with many great features that can be used for quantitative modeling, such as the following:

• Create as many simulation cockpits as needed and navigate between them using Model Explorer
• Easily use data from Excel, SQL, CSV, Access
• Sketch data by simply dragging the mouse within a diagram
• Sketch the relation of values between different factors
• Use Monte Carlo Simulation to run scenarios on the likelihood of risks and opportunities

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