The wake oscillator model is considered to be the most proper semi-empirical model for qualitatively or even quantitively assessing the vortex-induced vibration of a structure in the design stage. However, the complexities in parameter determination limit its usage in real engineering fields. Moreover, this kind of model is traditionally used to describe the experimental phenomena of two-dimensional cross-section models, the gaps between the results of two-dimensional cross-section model tests and the prototype responses of the three-dimensional real structures should be filled up. In this paper, a detailed study of the wake oscillator model is firstly presented, which demonstrates the influences of model parameters on the VIV features described by the wake oscillator model. Then, a new method for conveniently identifying the model parameters in the wake oscillator model is proposed. Besides, a new procedure, based on the wake oscillator model, for interpreting the wind tunnel test results into real structures is also proposed. The results are validated by wind tunnel tests and compared with field measurements. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.