Reproduction of labor potential as an object of simulation

The article analyzes the process of reproduction of labor potential as an object of simulation (particularly, agent-based) modeling. Employment potential is considered in the study under the integrated approach as a generalized characteristic of the measure and quality of a set of abilities to work. The introductory part of the article provides a brief description of simulation modeling as a method for studying complex systems, describes the beneϔits and features of agent-based approach, outlines main approaches to the interpretation of the concept “labor potential of the territory”. The reproduction of labor potential is considered in the study as the process of its continuous replenishment and renewal, consisting of three consecutive phases: formation, distribution and use. The author considers the essence of each phase of reproduction of labor potential and main processes that determine the formation, distribution and using of labor potential at the micro-and macro-level. The paper provides characteristics and examples of Russian and foreign agent-based models simulating various aspects of reproduction of labor potential: natural movement of population, migration, labor market dynamics etc. According to the analysis of the reproduction of labor potential as an object of simulation it is concluded that, first, an integrated approach to the interpretation of labor potential of the territory, taking into account the nature and depth of the concept, is almost never used in agent-based modeling; second, most of the models simulate some aspects of reproduction of labor potential, for example, the dynamics of the labor market, and do not consider the reproductive cycle as a whole; and third, model simplification of the real system is not always accompanied by the observance of the logic of flow of basic phase processes, for example, excluding the unemployed from the model leads to a distorted reproduction of the phase of the use of labor potential. The author proposes basic principles which must be met by an integrated agent-based model of reproduction of labor potential, in particular, according to the author’s position, such a model should reproduce the current state and dynamics of labor potential in unity and interrelation with quantitative and qualitative sides, to simulate main processes in each phase of reproduction of labor potential and thus correspond to the real system in its structure and logic of functioning.