Analyzing Agent-Based Simulations of Inter-organizational Networks

Modeling and simulation is intended to support the understanding and governance of inter-organizational networks. But the analysis of the outcome of such agent-based simulations requires advanced support. Due to the complexity of emergent behavior, the modeler must firstly decide about the validity of the simulation model. Secondly, the runs must be interpreted in order to receive support on the right managerial choices. In this paper we give a list of questions addressing both issues, validation and support, for the field of inter-organizational networks and investigate four different kinds of analysis - time series analysis, association rule mining, clustering, and social network analysis - in regard to their potential for providing support.