Description
Developing an integrated and readily extensible framework that can bring together a wide variety of models using flexible coupling strategies will require major methodological and computational advances, such as new methods for capturing cross-sectoral feedbacks, decentralized model parameterization and forcing datasets, and new approaches for upscaling and downscaling model output. We will apply a system of systems engineering process to identify the collaboration, technical management, and open development tools and infrastructure needed to support an integrative, multi-institution modeling environment. We will also seek to take advantage of other efforts aimed at understanding interoperable software design and multi-scale simulation.
However, new techniques will be needed to address novel aspects of the IM3 framework, such as using an agent-based approach to upscale watershed-scale dynamics to larger-scale models. Common protocols for data exchange, high-performance computing, and advanced visualization techniques will all play key roles in meeting these challenges.