Table 1.

Summary of best principles from systems science for informing the modelling process, recommendations for action by implementation scientists and contributing thought leaders and key references

Best principle	Recommendations	Thought leader [Reference]
1. Model the problem, not the system	Conduct formative research; construct models collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams	Sterman [34]
2. Pay attention to what is important, not just what is quantifiable	Use qualitative data to derive causal relationships; be guided by deep thinking and multiple perspectives	Meadows [36]
3. Leverage the utility of models as boundary objects	Create modifiable and readily perceptible representations of models; build trust and agreement by representing local knowledge	Black [43]
4. Adopt a portfolio approach to model building	Work in parallel to develop separate but related models in diverse ways; encourage exploration with ‘flawed’ models rather than aiming for perfection	Metcalf [6]