Skill in modeling is one of the keys to success in OR/MS practice. This has been recognized for many years, but we often give it only lip service. Models are used in many ways in OR/MS practice. A few simple principles of modeling may be useful. The six principles discussed here cover simplicity versus complexity; model development as a gradual, almost piecemeal process; dividing larger models into smaller components; using analogies; proper uses of data; and finally the way in which the modeling process can seem chaotic. Others may wish to comment on these principles and add their own.
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Michael Pidd (1999) studied this question.
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