A Software Agent-based Collaborative Approach for Humanitarian-Assistance Scenarios

Abstract: This paper presents a research project that deals with the use of software agents as a support to collaboration. Collaboration can face different obstacles, such as partner distribution and resource heterogeneity. To overcome these constraints, coordination strategies are required. Such strategies allow agents to avoid conflicts and, hence, to fulfill their activities efficiently. This project is applied to humanitarian-assistance scenarios, in which different participants, such as nongovernmental organizations, have to work together despite their individual differences. Therefore, it becomes relevant to suggest collaborative approaches that will support these participants in their daily operations.