The book uses STELLA software to develop simulation models, thus allowing readers to convert their understanding of a phenomenon to a computer model, and then run it to yield the inevitable dynamic consequences built into the structure. Part I provides an introduction to modeling dynamic systems, while Part II offers general modeling methods. Parts III through VIII then apply these methods to model real-world phenomena from chemistry, genetics, ecology, economics, and engineering. A clear, approachable introduction to the modeling process, of interest in any field where real problems can be illuminated by computer simulation.
From a review of first edition:
"[The authors] demonstrate convincingly that ... one can learn a lot about building and experimenting with and simulating dynamic models in a number of fields. ... Highly recommended for all studying model building and practical applications of systems theory." - Choice