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Frederick S. Pardee
Institute for International Futures
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IFs Model Documentation

Documentation helps users understand how International Futures (IFs) represents connected systems, assumptions, variables, and relationships.
IFs does not predict a single future. It helps users compare plausible futures under different assumptions. Documentation supports responsible use by helping users examine model structure, build scenarios carefully, record assumptions, and interpret results with limits in mind.

Use this page to find the right documentation resource for your task.

Guide to scenario analysis

Instructions for developing scenarios using International Futures (IFs)
Many users first consult documentation when they begin changing assumptions or comparing scenarios.

The scenario analysis guide introduces the IFs interface and explains how users can create and compare alternative scenarios relative to the IFs Base Case. It also points users toward the broader IFs Help system, where they can examine model structure, equations, parameters, and assumptions in greater detail.

Browse the scenario analysis guide

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Use the guide when you want to:

  • Understand the IFs Base Case.
  • Create a scenario.
  • Change assumptions carefully.
  • Compare scenario results.
  • Interpret results with attention to limits.
  • Locate deeper model documentation.

Technical model documentation

The IFs Wiki is the primary repository for technical model documentation. 

Use the Wiki to examine:

  • Model areas and submodules
  • Variables and parameters
  • Equations and relationships
  • Data sources and assumptions
  • Help system content
  • Documentation for specific model structures

Technical documentation is most useful when users need to understand why an output changed, how a model area is represented, or which assumptions shape a result.

Search the IFs Wiki

Use the IFs network diagram

The IFs network diagram helps users visualize relationships among variables and model areas.

Use it when you want to:

  • Trace direct and indirect relationships.
  • Explore how variables connect.
  • Understand links across model areas.
  • Share model relationships with students, collaborators, or project teams.

The network diagram is a support tool. It should be used alongside documentation and scenario interpretation, not as a complete representation of the model.

Open the IFs network diagram

Citation, versioning, and responsible use

Responsible IFs use means documenting what you did and interpreting results with care.

View guidance

Conceptual background

For users who want a broader understanding of IFs history, structure, and approach, Exploring and Shaping International Futures provides a fuller account of the platform and its use in long-term scenario analysis.

Read the complete IFs primer

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