ABACO-GEMA

The purpose of Project ABACO was to achieve a definitive international scientific recognition in the field we have been encouraging: the paradigm of agent-based models in the analysis and feasibility of complex systems. Emphasis is placed on fundamental research aimed at strengthening INSISOC scientific network connection nationally and internationally. That was consistent with a considerable effort of relationship and network with scientists and experts.

The project had two pillars, corresponding to two national competitive projects: ADAPCOMP and SICOSSYS (Agent-based Tools for Complex Social Systems Modeling and Simulation), both funded by the Ministry of Science and Innovation.

In this project we explored and developed new methodologies for multi-project management environments that exceeded the limitations of previous methodologies.

Specifically, we explored agent-based methodologies (multi-agent systems) and programming through the analogy of «combinatorial auction». We also developed substantial improvements in the monitoring and control of multi-project environments. We developed and implemented models that reflect the results of previous research and its results were validated.

It took as its starting point two hypotheses related to the use of distributed computational methods that were eventually confirmed:

• Computer models based on agents are a valid methodology to address the problem of multi-project scheduling environments.
• Models based on the analogy with social and market mechanisms allow modeling the complexity of the problems of «real» multi-project programming.