Linking Structure to Behavior Using Eigenvalue Elasticity Analysis

Abstract

Eigenvalue elasticity analysis (EEA) is a set of methods to assess the effect of structure on behavior in dynamic models. It works by considering observed model behavior as a combination of characteristic behavior modes and by assessing the relative importance of particular elements of system structure in influencing these behavior modes. Elements of the model structure that have a large influence on particular behaviors can provide important clues to the modeler to identify areas for further testing and study, and for policy analysis. The method uses linear systems theory to 1) decompose the observed behavior into its constituent behavior modes, such as oscillation, growth, and exponential adjustment, and 2) outline how a particular behavior modes and its appearance in a given system variable depend upon particular parameters and structural elements (links and loops) in the system. In this manner, the method provides a very precise account of the relationship between structure and behavior.

Keywords: structural dominance analysis, system dynamics