Modellsichten

Modellsichten is a concept used in modeling, simulation, and analytics describing the intentional use of multiple perspectives on a model to understand, validate, and communicate its properties. The term combines Modell and Sichten (views) and is employed in German-speaking contexts to highlight that a single model can be inspected in several ways without changing its core structure.

Purpose and approach: By separating concerns into distinct views, practitioners can address the needs of different stakeholders, such as domain experts, data scientists, and decision makers. Each view emphasizes specific aspects—structure and equations, dynamic behavior, data inputs and provenance, uncertainties, or scenario conditions—while maintaining a common underlying model.

Typical types of modellsichten include: structural views that show equations or components; behavioral views that illustrate dynamics over time; data views that map inputs, parameters, and data lineage; uncertainty views that reveal confidence, sensitivity, or probabilistic ranges; and scenario views that compare outcomes under alternative assumptions.

Practice and lifecycle: Modellsichten are used throughout model development, validation, deployment, and monitoring. Tools and methodologies often support switching between views, annotating assumptions, and linking outputs to the corresponding view. This supports governance, traceability, and explainability.

Applications and contexts: The concept appears in business analytics, engineering simulations, ecological and social models, and AI/ML explainability discussions. It helps teams align on model purpose, verify correctness, and communicate results to diverse audiences.

See also: model governance, explainable AI, view-based modeling, model documentation.