Mobility Rotterdam: The Wisecube
Description:
The Problem
The ERP Wise Policy project1 was a collaboration of 30 researchers within TNO. It aimed at developing a tool to help policymakers make decisions about well-being. It does this using data-driven modeling. The outcomes of these models are displayed through the “Wise Cube.” This tool is designed to visually represent potential results of different interventions in a clear and engaging way.
The Challenge
The main challenge was to build a model that wasn’t just theoretical, but practical and quantifiable. The case was a long street in Rotterdam that needed to change for a better traffic flow. The model needed to assess the impact of interventions like ‘one-way streets,’ ‘separate bike lanes,’ and ‘parking policies’ on different aspects of well-being. It also had to consider various target groups. This model became the focus case of the Early Research Program, thanks to its practical use and ability to offer real, actionable insights2.
The Approach
We worked together with a diverse team of experts to develop a model that could simulate the effects of different policy choices on well-being. The results were then displayed in the Wise Cube, making it easier for policymakers to see how their decisions might affect different populations. The visual representation played a key role in helping communicate complex outcomes in a simple, understandable way.2
Results
The model provided a clear and practical way to explore how various interventions impact well-being. By turning theoretical ideas into quantifiable results, it offered a powerful tool for policymakers. The model’s selection as the focus for the Early Research Program underscored its value and effectiveness2.
Thoughts
What I loved most about this project was the diversity of expertise involved. Bringing together so many different perspectives in the System Dynamics process was a real eye-opener. Turning it into something visually appealing and easy to understand was equally impressive. It showed me how complex models can be made accessible to everyone, which was a huge learning experience.
Role(s)
• Led a group model-building session focused on the relationship between mobility and well-being in Rotterdam.
• Worked on integrating and presenting the model results in the Wise Cube.
• Wrote the final report together with colleagues summarizing our findings2.
• Mentored an MSc student (TUDelft) throughout the project.
Sketching the WISE cube. “The WISE Cube has three dimensions. The different policy options are displayed horizontally, elements of wellbeing vertically, and the various population groups from front to back.” 1 “The model of mobility in relation to well-being, including the participation module.” 2 “The pathways (in Dutch) of the intervention ‘separated bicycle path’ to ‘perceived mental health’.” 2 “Results of WISE cube (before the session with the municipality) in the (a) short term; (b) medium term; and (c) long term.” 2 “Result for the resident when implementing a separated bicycle path.” 2
Video explaining the wisecube (in Dutch)
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