An overview of the open modelling interface and environment (the OpenMI)

The paper reports on a Framework 5 project, HarmonIT, which is developing an open modelling interface and environment (the OpenMI) to simplify the linking of water related simulation models. Its purpose is to support the implementation of the Water Framework Directive. If successful, it will facilitate the simulation of process interactions and make it easier for catchment managers to explore the wider implications of the policy options open to them. The main deliverable of the project is the definition of a standard interface that will allow new and existing models to exchange data at run time. To help users adapt their models to use the interface, and then link and run them with other models, the standard will be supported by software tools for migration, linking, monitoring performance and displaying results. The paper describes the work to date, outlines the key features of the OpenMI's architecture and explains the actions being taken to sustain the OpenMI into the future.