Complex Adaptive Systems

Complex adaptive systems (CAS) are fluidly changing collections of distributed interacting components that react to both their environments and to one another. Examples of complex adaptive systems include the electric power grid, telecommunications networks, the Internet, biological systems, ecological systems, social groups, and even human society itself. Many of the multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary problems found within these systems are of such great complexity that traditional modeling methodologies are often considered inadequate.

In response to this shortfall, Argonne is productively researching and developing agent-based modeling and simulation (ABMS) and other computational techniques to help understand these complex systems. Such tools as the DIS-developed Simphony modeling system, with its integrated Repast ABMS toolkit, are designed to work in the CAS environment. Argonne is successfully applying these innovative techniques to many problems of interest and importance such as systems biology, ecology, electric power grids, and social systems.

Ultimately, we believe that the development and application of these techniques will lead to better informed decision making.

Focus Areas

• Agent-based Modeling and Simulation
• Complexity
• The Simphony Family of Modeling Tools, including the Repast ABMS Toolkit

For more information, contact:

Charles M. Macal, Director
Center for Complex Adaptive Agent Systems Simulation
Decision and Information Sciences Division
Argonne National Laboratory
9700 South Cass Ave., Bldg. 900
Argonne, IL 60439
Phone: 630-252-3767
Fax: 630-252-6073
E-mail: macal@anl.gov