inventory management, VMI, software agents, MDV model

• Main Authors: Waldemar Wieczerzycki, Piotr Januszewski
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Poznań School of Logistics 2012-03-01
• Series: LogForum
• Subjects: inventory management; VMI; software agents; MDV model
• Online Access: http://www.logforum.net/vol8/issue1/no3/8_1_3_12.pdf

Background: As it is well know, the implementation of instruments of logistics management is only possible with the use of the latest information technology. So-called agent technology is one of the most promising solutions in this area. Its essence consists in an entirely new way of software distribution on the computer network platform, in which computer exchange among themselves not only data, but also software modules, called just agents. The first aim is to propose the alternative method of the implementation of the concept of the inventory management by the supplier with the use of intelligent software agents, which are able not only to transfer the information but also to make the autonomous decisions based on the privileges given to them. The second aim of this research was to propose a new model of a software agent, which will be both of a high mobility and a high intelligence. Methods: After a brief discussion of the nature of agent technology, the most important benefits of using it to build platforms to support business are given. Then the original model of polymorphic software agent, called Multi-Dimensionally Versioned Software Agent (MDV) is presented, which is oriented on the specificity of IT applications in business. MDV agent is polymorphic, which allows the transmission through the network only the most relevant parts of its code, and only when necessary. Consequently, the network nodes exchange small amounts of software code, which ensures high mobility of software agents, and thus highly efficient operation of IT platforms built on the proposed model. Next, the adaptation of MDV software agents to implementation of well-known logistics management instrument - VMI (Vendor Managed Inventory) is illustrated. Results: The key benefits of this approach are identified, among which one can distinguish: reduced costs, higher flexibility and efficiency, new functionality - especially addressed to business negotiation, full automation of work that in practice does not require the involvement of network users, the ability to use new communication channels, etc. Conclusions: The proposed MDV model significantly enriched the advantages of software agents, which was then practically illustrated by the proposal of their use for the VMI implementation.