Transparency of RAMAS Metapop and RAMAS GIS

There are several features in RAMAS Metapop and RAMAS GIS that are specifically designed to make the programs transparent.

1. The methods used in the program are described in detail in the manual as well as in several peer-reviewed publications.
2. The source code of the program is summarized in the form of pseudo-code in a file distributed with the program, as well as in an appendix to the manual.
3. You can link your own code to the program, with a "user-defined function" option.
4. Several examples of "user-defined functions" are provided with the program, including their full source codes as well as the compiled versions.
5. The manual and the help file list the basic assumptions and technical limitations of the program.
6. The program allows you to print a list of "Model Summary and Assumptions" for your model.
7. The program displays your input parameters in the form of various graphs that allow you to examine the properties of your model.
8. The program indicates which input parameters it is not using (e.g., if catastrophe probability is zero, then the magnitude of the catastrophe impact is not relevant).
9. The manual and the help file include the exact definitions of the model parameters, how they are used by the program, tips on parameter estimation, and suggestions for various methods of testing and validating your model.
10. The program makes many checks, and displays warnings if it detects potential problems in your model.
11. The help file provides a list and detailed explanation of these warning messages, as well as suggestions about how to correct your model.