1. Adelaide Knowledge Management
Knowledge Management for and about the future (July 16th)
Presenter: Damian Hughes
Bachelor of Applied Science (Hons) UniADL
Graduate Diploma Defence Operations Research UNSW

2. KM & Simulation Modelling
For discussion
What is the relationship between Tacit Knowledge (Experience) and Simulation Models in the real world?
How is it embodied in the model, and how is it used to validate the output?
How does the simulation model inform us as either Information or Knowledge

3. Simulation Modelling
You have been tasked to provide analytical support to assess the current and future supply chain configuration for a company.
what would be your preferred approach and outcome?
multiple perspectives: individual and team (organisation)
what could you leave behind for future personnel/organisation so that your efforts have some longevity beyond the immediate project
Simulation demonstration

4. Tacit Knowledge & Simulations
Problem structuring
data: lots of it and questionable quality
information: organising/mapping that data in accordance with some conceptual model(s)
knowledge: inform decision making
Process of enquiry enabling personnel
externalise their conceptual models of the system
surface their assumptions
to test ideas and receive feedback

5. Verification & Validation
The model isn’t the system, it is a representation!
Verification
does the model do what it was intended to do
does the code implement the business model(s) as intended?
Validation
is the model fit for purpose
is the model appropriately scoped (scale & fidelity)?
Tacit knowledge & model validation
is the model behaviour consistent with conceptual models and how are inconsistencies reconciled?

6. Statistics c.f. Tacit Knowledge
The past isn’t necessarily a good indicator of the future
analysts must appreciate the LIMITATIONS of historical datasets
Simulation modelling supports critical thinking
simulation is not PREDICTING future behaviour
provides a method of enquiry to allow people/teams to surface, develop, and refine their conceptual models

7. Model Insights (inform)
Our behaviour/decisions are influenced by our conceptual models
what process are you using to grow conceptual model(s)
How does the clients conceptual models align with the simulation representation?
how does someone behave when their conceptual models are being challenged?
A simulation model can provide users with the capability to enter a challenging problem domain and test their conceptual models
If not how are you exposing your company to the risk of untested conceptual models and how systems behave