End time Quote by Eric von Hippel
““The value of using models rather than the real thing in experimentation is twofold. First, it can reduce the cost of an experiment-it can be much cheaper to crash a simulated BMW than a real one. Second, it can make experimental results clearer by making them simpler or otherwise different than real life. If one is trying to test the effect of a small change on car safety, for example, it can be helpful to remove everything not related to that change from the experiment. For example, if one is testing the way a particular wheel suspension structure deforms in a crash, one does not have to know (or spend time computing) how a taillight lens will react in the crash. Also, in a real crash things happen only once and happen very fast. In a virtual crash executed by computer, on the other hand, one can repeat the””
About This Quote
Source Article: “The Role of Models in Engineering Experimentation”, MIT Sloan Management Review, 2005
Using models lets researchers cut costs, isolate variables, and repeat tests, yielding clearer insights than costly real‑world experiments.
In simple terms: Models reduce cost, simplify variables, and allow repeatable experiments.
Key Takeaway
Leverage simulations to test ideas efficiently.
Themes
engineering
simulation
cost reduction
experimental design
clarity
Mood
analytical
practical
instructive
Type
technical
educational
When to use this quote
- automotive safety testing
- product prototyping
- software debugging
- policy modeling
Key Concepts
systems engineering
computational modeling
risk analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- What variables are essential to retain in a model?
- When does a model become too abstract?
A Different Perspective
Models may oversimplify complex real‑world interactions.
![“Philosophers of science constantly discuss theories and representation of reality, but say almost nothing about experiment, technology, or the use of knowledge to alter the world. This is odd, because 'experimental method' used to be just another name for scientific method… I hope [to] initiate a…” quote by Ian Hacking](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1bb/ian-hacking-9085_experimental-science_philosophers-of-science-constantly-discu_2595149.jpg)
