Multi-Level Modeling of Socio-Technical Systems

There is an enormous range of computational models and simulations for addressing a variety of analysis and design issues in complex systems. This report addresses systems where behavioral and social phenomena are significant elements of system performance. The report begins with an overview of the state of the art for multi-level modeling of such “socio-technical” systems. It then reports on an interview study of how four non-defense industries address computational modeling of complex aerospace, automotive, building equipment, and semi-conductor systems. The report concludes with several observations on the overall study of which this work was an element.