A model is a representation of a selected part of reality with a lot fewer details. A model aircraft may fly, but it is far less complex than the real thing. One purpose of a model is to control the level of detail to be examined. Reduced detail allows one model to represent many real processes that differ down in the details.

It is not possible to achieve common understanding of a complex subject without building a model. A group will discuss a model until they are comfortable with it (or don't care) and then move on to the next model. Understanding has been reached when people stop changing the models.

If you are building consensus in a group of people, you first list the items that need models and then pick one to start on. You have to have simple models that everyone understands. Everyone starts by throwing their pet model into the pot, and then the group members try to combine the best ideas into one agreeable model. This results in models that are not perfect but are able to work together. Each model provides a point for focusing analytical skills, which reduces the time wasted by debates among people who are not talking about the same thing.

A standards committee must come up with a set of models that everyone can understand, even if that means leaving out the deeper meanings attached to the models. A standard that everyone understands differently is worthless. You could say that...