An agent-based planning approach within the framework of distributed hierarchical enterprise management

In this paper, a model-based planning approach within the framework of distributed hierarchical enterprise management is developed. Suitable algorithms are provided, especially for the case of manufacturing companies. Requirements for a decision support system based on this concept are derived. Software agents in the context of a Multi-Agent-System (MAS) seem to be appropriate to implement the proposed concept. After the identification of the necessary agents, the system architecture is described. Computational results for the suggested algorithm are discussed. Copyright Springer Verlag 2011