Modeling 5: Mathematical Models or Algorithms

A mathematical model expresses a physical model using mathematical formulae, or in software models, these formulae are called algorithms.

The formula A = -32 feet/second squared describes the acceleration of a body falling toward the earth (like a parachutist) as experienced by the effects of gravity. The term “normal (20,5)” could describe an access control point that processes an average of 20 people per minute. It also tells you that the number of people processed has normal variation (graphed like a bell curve) and that the standard deviation around that average is five people per minute.

Once the language of mathematics is understood, we have a powerful analytical tool for describing and manipulating complex systems (like the complex organizational systems Security and Loss Prevention practitioners must describe and manipulate).