Improved conceptual models methodology (ICoMM) for validation of non-observable systems

Abstract

This dissertation expands the current view of development and validation of conceptual models (CoM) of non-observable systems (NOSs) by using systems engineering (SE) and systems architecture (SA) methods during the model development process (MDP). A MDP is used to ensure that the models are validated and represent the real world as accurately as possible. There are several varieties of MDPs presented in literature, but all share the importance of the CoM. The improved conceptual model methodology (ICoMM) is developed in support of improving the structure of the CoM for both face and traces validation. The utility of ICoMM is demonstrated through the building of functional, physical, and allocated architecture products that improve the structure of the CoM for traces validation. ICoMM also incorporates a value model to ensure subject matter experts’ (SMEs’) values are documented early in the MDP for face validation. A well-constructed CoM supports model exploration of NOS when operational validation is not feasible. This dissertation uses a humanitarian assistance/disaster relief (HA/DR) scenario to demonstrate ICoMM’s ability to ensure documentation of SMEs’ values and that the structure of the COM links SMEs’ values to the fundamental objective.