Open-Source Decision Models
Most policy decisions are complicated and controversial. Decision models can play a crucial role in helping stakeholders figure out what they agree about and what they don’t. Open-source models are available to anyone interested in downloading, reviewing, and running with different assumptions.
This enables stakeholders to explore the issues themselves rather than rely on the ‘expert’ black-box analysts. Figure out which assumptions really make a difference; several organizations have used Analytica models in this way. Because Analytica models are more transparent than traditional spreadsheets or black-box simulations, participants can more easily understand the assumptions and their implications.