Visualization and system dynamics modeling of the global appetite for protein

• Published in: Computers and electronics in agriculture 2003-03, Vol.38 (3), p.161-174
• Main Authors: Fisher, Donna K., Sonka, Steven T., Westgren, Randall E.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Human physiology applied to population studies and life conditions. Human ecophysiology; Medical sciences; Nutritional survey. Food supply and nutritional requirement; Soybean industry; System dynamics; Visualization
• ISSN: 0168-1699; 1872-7107
• DOI: 10.1016/S0168-1699(02)00142-4

This research utilizes the power of three-dimensional visualization to present simulation results of the system dynamics model of global protein consumption. The protein consumption dynamics (PCD) model explores how changes in income and population growth affect the potential appetite for protein and malnutrition on a region-by-region basis. The system dynamics model and the visualization interface were developed to assist decision making for strategic investments in market development and research. Experiments were designed to test how decision frames were affected by the use of the PCD. Results showed that the visualized representation of complex system interactions caused soy industry decision makers to focus on issues more relevant to the future of the industry. These issues include the potential for growth in Asian markets as opposed to traditional markets in developed western countries, the persistence of widespread malnutrition in Sub-Saharan Africa, and the limitations that historical production investments and infrastructure place on the ability to respond to market dynamics.