Summary
WOT Nature & Environment ensures ongoing quality assurance of the models, databases and indicators that are developed and managed by Wageningen Research.
null
Models, spatial and other databases and indicators play a major role in our advice on complex policy issues. WOT Nature & Environment ensures ongoing quality assurance of the models, databases and indicators that are developed and managed by Wageningen Research and are essential for carrying out the statutory research tasks in the field of nature and the environment. The quality of the development and use of models, databases and indicators is assessed according to a protocol of 22 requirements. These are not only scientific, but include requirements with a more social significance, such as what model results mean in the political and societal arena.
As the importance of a model, database or indicator increases, so too do the quality requirements. WOT Nature & Environment aims to ensure that the models, databases and indicators it uses meet the Status A baseline quality level. This level requires adequate documentation on the model, database or indicator, such as the description of the concept, the technical and user documentation, and a description of tests, calibration, validation, sensitivity analysis and management. Status AA consists of the requirements for Status A and additional requirements, such as peer review, a quantitative uncertainty analysis and continual quality improvement. For models, databases and indicators still in development, but that have sometimes already been used, there is a Self-Assessment level. This is based on the 22 Status A requirements, but without assessment in an audit.
The quality assurance of new applied models, databases and indicators is performed by carrying out an audit. In addition, re-audits are regularly performed to monitor the quality of all the models, databases and indicators used. Depending on the improvements made, a re-audit or a new audit is carried out when new versions of existing models, databases and indicators are first introduced for use.
The Self-Assessment, Status A and Status AA system is designed to ensure that the quality and transparency of the models, databases and indicators used by WOT Nature & Environment are continually improved. This allows both scientists and policymakers to better understand what meaning can be drawn from model outcomes.
Quality of Models and Databases in KB-Magazine
More information on Model Quality at WOT Nature & Environment
Quality of models for statutory research tasks
https://www.wur.nl/nl/show/kwaliteit-van-modellen-voor-wettelijke-onderzoekstaken.htm
Comprehensive list of indicators, databases and models
https://www.wur.nl/nl/show/integrale-lijst-graadmeters-databestanden-en-modellen.htm