CALIBRATION OF PROCESS-ORIENTED MODELS

Model calibration is a critical phase in the modelling process, and th e need for a well-established calibration strategy is obvious. Therefo re a systematic approach for model calibration is proposed which is gu ided by the intended model use, and which is supported by adequate tec hniques, prior knowledge and expert judgement. The success of calibrat ion will be primarily limited by the nature, amount and quality of the available data, in relation to the complexity of the model; additiona l limitations are the effectiveness of the applied techniques and the availability of time, man- and computer power, adequate expertise and financial resources. These limitations will often preclude a unique ca librated model. As a consequence, calibration studies should provide i nformation on the non-uniqueness and/or uncertainty which will be left in the model (parameters) after calibration, and this uncertainty sho uld be adequately accounted for in subsequent model applications.