In a context where complexity and unpredictability increasingly form part of the decision-making process, our policymakers need new tools to help them experiment, explore different scenarios and weigh the trade-offs of a decision in a safe, pressure-free environment.

Simulation brings the potential for more creative, efficient and effective policymaking

The best way to understand how simulation can be used as a policy method is to look at examples. We've found eight really great examples from around the world, giving us a sense of the broad range of applications simulation can have in the policymaking process, from board games through to more traditional modelling techniques applied to new fields, and all the way to virtual reality.