Exploratory Modeling and the use of Simulation for Policy Analysis

This Note expresses a general vision of how to use exploratory modeling to support policy studies, and how this vision is being applied to analyzing the contribution of IEW to combat outcomes is seen.

Abstract

This Note documents insights into the use of computer modeling for difficult policy problems. These insights have been arrived at in the context of the project Measuring the Operational Value of Intelligence and Electronic Warfare (OPVIEW). The project, part of the Applied Technology Program, was undertaken by the Army's Arroyo Center. It objective is to develop a methodological approach and supporting model as tools for analyzing and measuring the operational value of Intelligence and Electronic Warfare (IEW), in combat outcome terms. This Note expresses a general vision of how to use exploratory modeling to support policy studies. To see how this vision is being applied to analyzing the contribution of IEW to combat outcomes, see N-3101-A, Methodological Considerations in Using Simulation to Assess the Combat Value of Intelligence and Electronic Warfare. The Arroyo Center is the U.S. Army's federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) for studies and analysis, operated by RAND. The Arroyo Center provides the Army with objective, independent analytic research on major policy and management concerns, emphasizing mid- to long-term problems. Its research is carried out in five programs: Policy and Strategy; Force Development and Employment; Readiness and Sustainability; Manpower, Training, and Performance, and Applied Technology.