11.2) Re-Implementing Other Models

Beware of the Models Library. Although many interesting projects are in there, it may give an incomplete picture of agent-based modelling. If you use it for exercises projects, check the corresponding literature.

Before working on you own project, re-implementing an existing, not too complex, model is a good idea as well, if you consider the following points:

• Be prepared not to be able to fully reproduce results (but try to contact authors if needed)
• Use the ODD first to re-write model description
• Don‘t try to reproduce results in every detail
• Use the re-implemented model to address new questions, modify the model, etc.

If you start working on your own first ABM/NetLogo program by carefully formulating your conceptual model, using ODD and diagrams. Share your code or work in groups if possible. Implement toy models first, before you try representing some real system, force yourself to simplify as much as you can, and beyond.