This paper examines the contribution that three simple migration models can make towards a fuller understanding of the migration process. The models employed are a Kinematic model, a Markov Chain model and a Modified Markov model. Their capacities to reflect trends inherent in migration matrices from England and Wales, Italy, Germany, and France are examined in three ways. Firstly, the variations between the projections of each model are compared with the maximum projected changes after ten and fifty years. Secondly, the sensitivity of the models to changes in system parameters is explored in order to test the utility of the models as monitoring tools. Thirdly, the generality of the models is tested by making changes in the geographic specification of the German regional system. 

An associate exercise employs a more complex model incorporating positive feedback effects in order to compare the likely redistributive effects of policy input.