The accuracy of the phenomenological curing and rheological models are strongly related to the estimated start parameters and selected regression algorithms. Considering the versatile methods for model start parameter estimation (model‐free vs. model‐fitting, dynamic vs. isothermal) and regression analysis algorithm (linear vs. nonlinear, single‐target vs. multi‐target), this paper investigates the theoretical basis and influence of these aspects on the model development process and model quality. The curing kinetics is modelled by model‐free and model‐fitting start parameters and different regression algorithms, followed by cross model validation at the final. The results showed that the different parameter estimation methods and evaluation algorithms have a remarkable influence on the final model parameters and its quality. The study shows the correlation between the different aspects and provides a basis for better selection of model parameter evaluation methods and regression algorithms for model development with improved quality and accuracy. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45137.