Towards a framework for visual model development

A number of decision support systems (DSS) based on a visual interactive simulation (VIS) model have been implemented in recent years. A key component of a VIS model is the visual model. Existing VIS model development methodologies suggest methods (such as the paper prototype method) for developing a visual model. However, these methods are quite general and do not contain a framework to guide development. This paper describes a framework which combines the paper prototype method with systems concepts to develop the visual model. The proposed framework consists of eight stages. A project proof of principle example is described in which a VIS-based DSS provides support to the owner of a company selling telephone systems.