Are there tools that can help us develop conceptual models?
Developing a conceptual model of an ecosystem or EBM project can help project participants come to a common understanding of and communicate about their ecosystem, threats to the ecosystem, and how potential management actions may change things. The development of conceptual models is a fairly well-established field, and there are a number of tools available to help in developing them. Some recommended tools are: • Microsoft Word and Microsoft PowerPoint can be used to digitize simple conceptual models. These software packages have the advantage that many practitioners already have them and are familiar with them, but using them for developing a conceptual model could become frustrating if models become complex or need frequent adjustment. • Microsoft Visio is specifically designed for diagramming purposes such as digitizing conceptual models. It is not included in basic Microsoft Office suites, however, and therefore may need to be purchased ($200+). • On-line Conceptual Diagram Creat
