Use of a decision support system and a simulation game to help collective decision-making in water management

This paper presents a method based on a participatory approach involving a decision support system and a simulation game to improve discussion between actors and to facilitate the emergence of acceptable compromise solutions in water management. An example is provided of how the method can be applied using data from an irrigated perimeter in Tunisia. This is a good example of a conflict between dam managers, farmers and administration concerning water allocation. First, we present the global model with results from a number of scenarios. Then we present a simulation gaming developed to rapidly construct scenarios in collaboration with decision-makers. (c) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.