Validation responsibility for Fiscal Impact Budgeting Simulation models

Fiscal Impact Budgeting Simulations (FIBS) are large-scale computer models which purport to forecast the service, revenue, and expenditure implications of governmental zoning, housing, population, transportation and taxing decisions. Validation of simulation models should be conducted relative to the precise experimental frame. The issues associated with extending public sector simulation validations beyond the reasonableness and completeness stage are explored. Four levels of validation (general overall model, historical, predictive, and structural) and the degree of responsibility (commercial model vendor or local government client) are detailed in an effort to clarify issues related to FIBS validation.