Definition of Term: Reification

Perhaps the simplest technique for linking a model to reality is given by the Best Input approach. Although very useful and suitable for many applications, often a more detailed approach is required.

A more careful treatment of the link between model and reality, is given by a technique known as Reification. This involves linking the current model \(f\) to a Reified model \(f^+\) which would contain all known improvements to the current model. This is often done via an intermediate model \(f'\) that represents specific improvements to the current model. The Reified model is subsequently linked to reality.

Emulators are often used to describe each model in this process, as they provide useful representations of the relevant uncertainties involved.