The main contribution of this work is to discuss the strategies to develop a robust but easy-to-use environmental software for spatio-temporal models. The development of iLake was taken as an example. The strategies used in iLake development included (1) multi-level RGDyK strategy, (2) data component to support modeling practice, (3) specific tools to calibrate spatio-temporal models, (4) scenario-oriented approach for data management, and (5) software compatibility improvement. Compared with other environmental software for lake modeling, iLake saved considerable time for data preparation, model calibration and analyzing simulation results using its robust tools. A case study of phytoplankton prediction in Lake Taihu using iLake demonstrated that it is simple enough for modelers with limited experience in lake modeling to implement their case studies. This robust but easy-to-use philosophy in iLake, as well as its corresponding strategies, provided a step towards better environmental software for spatio-temporal ecological models, and were thus worthy to be used in developing environmental software for other disciplines.
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