Cognitive mapping and problem structuring for system dynamics model building

This chapter discusses an approach to problem structuring that seeks to recognize the significance of multiple perspectives and the richness they provide in generating politically feasible ways of resolving problems. In particular, the method—cognitive mapping and an associated computer-based group support system—is related to the early stages of modeling situations that are characterized by feedback dynamics. Thus, the method is argued to be particularly suitable as a visual interactive modeling method, which is mutually supportive of visual interactive system dynamics modeling methods.