Agent-based Software Development

Agent technology promises to increase the flexibility and power of software systems 10 accommodate the next generation of computing, including intelligent web services, e-business, and grid computing. In recent years, agent technology has seen dramatic growth and has gained wide acceptance among industry professionals. This unique new reference offers software engineers, system developers and advanced students the most thorough and comprehensive explanation of the methods, tools, standards and techniques used to develop software using the agent-oriented approach. Addressing issues of direct relevance to specific development and task objectives, as well as to industry-wide initiatives, the book is essential for those wanting to understand more about the commercial realities of agent-based computing.

Michael Luck is a professor at the University of Southampton and a director of AgentLink, the European Commission’s Network of Excellence for Agent-Based Computing. Professor Luck is also the series editor of the Artech House Agent-Oriented Systems Series. He holds both a Ph.D. and a B.Sc. in Computer Science from University College London, University of London, and has published extensively.

Ronald Ashri is a research fellow at the University of Southampton where he is investigating infrastructure support for agent-based systems and security policies. Previously he worked with BTexact Labs, examining mobile agent technologies. He holds a B.Sc. in Computer Science from Warwick University, is completing his Ph.D. at Southampton University, and has published in the area of agent infrastructure.

Mark d’Inverno is a professor at the University of Westminster and director of its Center for Agent Technology. He holds a Ph.D in Computer Science from University College London, University of London, an M.Sc. in Computation from the Programming Research Group, Oxford University, an M.A. in Mathematics from St. Catherine’s College, Oxford University, and has published extensively.