Agent-oriented computing for distributed systems and networks

摘要

Recently, we can observe an increasing interest in agent-based computing as a method for design and implementation of distributed systems and networks. In particular, software agents find their way to dynamic and complex environments where they provide the, much needed, robustness and flexibility. As a cause and effect of this process, the field of agent technology is rapidly maturing. The gathered body of knowledge allows in-depth reflection on the nature of designing and implementing agent-based solutions. For instance, experiences gathered by the Telecom Italia guide the development of the JADE agent platform. As a result, significant advances can be seen in (1) methods for designing agent-based systems, (2) agent-oriented formalisms for modeling distributed systems and networks, (3) agent tools/ platforms/ environments. The goal of this special issue is to discuss some of them.