Design of an agent-based model to simulate governance in inter-organizational project networks

Agent-based simulation models provide a means of analyzing and understanding the functioning of complex socio-economic systems, which often involve multiple interacting entities and non-linear and stochastic interactions. In such models, agents may be individuals or organizations, characterized by such properties as objectives, values, capabilities and resources. Project networks are temporary inter-organizational networks of heterogeneous actors whose purpose is to accomplish a complex set of tasks and reach shared goals. The variety of actors in project networks and the complexity of their interactions makes agent-based simulation a logical choice for simulating such networks. This paper present a design of an agent-based simulation for simulating governance in project network. Key design principles are introduced, along with practical examples of how specific governance mechanisms can be implemented in the model. Additionally, advantages and challenges of agent-based simulation as a research method is discussed.