Reflections and recommendations on Software Quality Management in economic models

Wolfgang Britz, Torbjoern Jansson and David Schäfer

No 369109, Discussion Papers from University of Bonn, Institute for Food and Resource Economics

Abstract: Software Quality Management (SQM) for economic simulation models includes different aspects of software development, such as using a version control system, developing, and applying coding guidelines, proper documentation of code, and a testing strategy to systematically locate and remove errors. This paper focuses on testing as the main element of SQM to decrease the probability of incorrect outcomes and reduce debugging costs. Other elements of SQM are discussed more briefly and in relation to testing. Due to differences in developer competence, in software used for coding, and in the organisational structure of research projects, approaches for testing in industry projects are not always applicable to economic models. Based on real-world examples, we show how a testing strategy can be implemented in economic modelling, spanning from automated checks and tests to a release strategy for the economic model. Overall, we recommend developing a test strategy for an economic model as early as possible to save cost and to ensure reliable model outcomes.

Keywords: Research and Development/Tech Change/Emerging Technologies; Research Research Methods/Statistical Methods; Teaching/Communication/Extension/Profession (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Pages: 38
Date: 2025-09-15
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-ppm
References: Add references at CitEc
Citations:

Downloads: (external link)
https://ageconsearch.umn.edu/record/369109/files/D ... son_Sch%C3%A4fer.pdf (application/pdf)

Related works:
This item may be available elsewhere in EconPapers: Search for items with the same title.

Export reference: BibTeX RIS (EndNote, ProCite, RefMan) HTML/Text

Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ags:ubfred:369109

DOI: 10.22004/ag.econ.369109

Access Statistics for this paper

More papers in Discussion Papers from University of Bonn, Institute for Food and Resource Economics Contact information at EDIRC.
Bibliographic data for series maintained by AgEcon Search ().