Fuzzy Cognitive Maps Tool for Scenario Analysis and Pattern Classification

Abstract

After 30 years of research, challenges and solutions, Fuzzy Cognitive Maps (FCMs) have become a suitable knowledge-based methodology for modeling and simulation. This technique is especially attractive when modeling systems that are characterized by ambiguity, complexity and non-trivial causality. FCMs are well-known due to the transparency achieved during modeling tasks. The literature reports successful studies related to the modeling of complex systems using FCMs. However, the situation is not the same when it comes to software implementations where domain experts can design FCM-based systems, run simulations or perform more advanced experiments. The existing implementations are not proficient in providing many options to adjust essential parameters during the modeling steps. The gap between the theoretical advances and the development of accurate, transparent and sound FCM-based systems advocates for the creation of more complete and flexible software products. Therefore, the goal of this paper is to introduce FCM Expert, a software tool for fuzzy cognitive modeling oriented to scenario analysis and pattern classification. The main features of FCM Expert rely on Machine Learning algorithms to compute the parameters defining the model, optimize the network topology and improve the system convergence without losing information. On the other hand, FCM Expert allows performing WHAT-IF simulations and studying the system behavior through a friendly, intuitive and easy-to-use graphical user interface.