Abstract
Prediction from models and data in Ecology has a long history and can be
made from many types of statistical, simulation, and other classes of
models. To date, our ability to use the predictive approach as a tool
for developing, validating, updating, integrating and applying models
across scientific disciplines and to influence management decisions,
policies and the public has been hampered by disparate perspectives on
prediction and inadequate tools. We present a coherent perspective that
follows a Predictive Ecology approach based on 5 principles: Reusable,
Freely available and Interoperable models, built around a Continuous
workflow, which are Tested automatically (PERFICT). We describe the
SpaDES toolkit that helps implement these principles. We outline some
benefits for society of working with these principles, including 1)
speeding up scientific advances; 2) data science advances; and 3)
improving science-policy integration.