An Agent-Based Distributed Decision Support System Framework for Mediated Negotiation
Frank LoPinto, Cliff T. Ragsdale, Loren Paul Rees, Roberta Russell Tillar, Lance A. Matheson, Christopher W. Zobel · VTechWorks (Virginia Tech) · 2004
Implementing an e-market for limited supply perishable asset (LiSPA) products is a problem at the intersection of online purchasing and distributed decision support systems (DistDSS). In this dissertation, we introduce and define LiSPA products, provide real-world examples, develop a framework for a distributed system to implement an e-market for LiSPA products, and provide proof-of-concept for the two major components of the framework. The DistDSS framework requires customers to instantiate agents that learn their preferences and evaluate products on their behalf. Accurately eliciting and modeling customer preferences in a quick and easy manner is a major hurdle for implementing this agent-based system. A methodology is developed for this problem using conjoint analysis and neural networks. The framework also contains a model component that is addressed in this work. The model component is presented as a mediator of customer negotiation that uses the agent-based preference models mentioned above and employs a linear programming model to maximize overall satisfaction of the total market. DEDICATION I dedicate this work to my wife, Stacie, and to our sons, Frankie, Dominic, Vincent, and Joseph. Stacie, endeavoring upon this journey would have been impossible without your support, understanding, and adventurous nature. Your patience and belief in my abilities are the reasons for our success. Boys, your existence alone provides the daily motivation I need to be successful, and your individual and collective success continually inspires me to do the best work possible. iii