Two design patterns for visualising the parameter space of complex systems

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Description/Abstract

A key feature of complex systems is that their behaviour can vary significantly depending on their location in parameter space. A major challenge for researchers is to understand how combinations of system parameters influence behaviour; that is, to understand the shape of parameter space. Tools for visualising the structure and dynamics of complex systems and the shape of their parameter spaces play an important role in addressing this challenge. Many of these tools are developed to address problems in specific domains. If complex systems share certain general properties that transcend their specific domain, it should be possible to share tools for understanding these systems between domains. One technique that has been proposed for achieving this is the use of design patterns.