DESIGN AND DEPLOYMENT OF A SIMULATION PLATFORM: CASE STUDY OF AN AGENT-BASED MODEL FOR YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION

Area of Science:

• Computational modeling
• Software engineering
• Public health informatics

Background:

• End-user engagement in simulation model co-design is studied, but software development for deployment is less explored.
• Developing and deploying simulation platforms requires addressing diverse end-user needs and technical constraints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the software development, packaging, and deployment of a simulation platform for youth suicide prevention.
• To present practical solutions for common challenges in simulation platform development and deployment.

Main Methods:

• Case study methodology detailing software development for an Agent-Based Model.
• Categorization of end-user needs into data, deployment, and accessibility.
• Description of software solutions addressing competing demands in each need category.

Main Results:

• The study details solutions for data security (e.g., no direct individual data access) and ease of data updates without coding.
• Deployment solutions address security protocols (e.g., intranet communication) and user experience (e.g., simple installation).
• Accessibility solutions ensure inclusivity for individuals with impairments.

Conclusions:

• Practical solutions for data, deployment, and accessibility challenges are provided.
• This case study offers a model for simulation developers to address deployment needs effectively.
• The findings support the development of user-centered simulation platforms in public health contexts.