@article{adf777781bae480ebc26f5c32cd1794c,
title = "Evaluating Binary Alignment Methods in Microsimulation Models",
abstract = "Alignment is a widely adopted technique in the field of microsimulation for social and economic policy research. However, limited research has been devoted to understanding the statistical properties of the various alignment algorithms currently in use. This paper discusses and evaluates six common alignment algorithms used in the dynamic microsimulation through a set of theoretical and statistical criteria proposed in the earlier literature (e.g. Morrison 2006; O'Donoghue 2010). This paper presents and compares the alignment processes, probability transformations, and the statistical properties of alignment outputs in transparent and controlled setups. The results suggest that there is no single best method for all simulation scenarios. Instead, the choice of alignment method might need to be adapted to the assumptions and requirements in a specific project.",
keywords = "Algorithm Evaluation, Alignment, Dynamic Microsimulation, Microsimulation",
author = "Jinjing LI and Cathal O'Donoghue",
note = "Funding Information: The first author is extremely grateful to Henrik Enghoff and Jan Pedersen (Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, Denmark) for their kind help and support during his internship in the Museum. This research (DK-TAF 6818) received support from the SYNTHESYS Project, which is financed by the European Community Research Infrastructure Action under the FP7 “Capacities” Programme. Funding Information: The first author is extremely grateful to Henrik Enghoff and Jan Pedersen (Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, Denmark) for their kind help and support during his internship in the Museum. This research (DK-TAF 6818) received support from the SYNTHESYS Project, which is financed by the European Community Research Infrastructure Action under the FP7 '{\textquoteleft}Capacities{\textquoteright}' Programme. We would like to thank Thomas Thieme, Nicol{\'a}s P{\`e}rez Hidalgo and Roger Blackman for all comments and suggestions that improved the first version of the manuscript.",
year = "2014",
month = jan,
doi = "10.18564/jasss.2334",
language = "English",
volume = "17",
pages = "1--19",
journal = "Journal of Artificial Societies and Social Simulation",
issn = "1460-7425",
publisher = "University of Surrey",
number = "1",
}