Semantic Web and Multiple-Agents in SCM

In recent years, many researches about how to efficiently handling information on logistics in supply chain have been proposed. Some focus on applying artificial intelligence to solving the problem. Most of the above approaches, however, usually consider multiple agents and simulation systems in single companies. Besides, they seldom consider using semantics to allow flexible information query with different linguistic terms. In this paper, we have proposed a framework for an e-SCM multiple-agents decision support system (called e-SCM multi-agents system), which combines ontology, to efficiently integrate data and information in supply chains. There are five layers in the system, including access layer, communication layer, application layer, ontology layer and database layer. These layers are linked together to integrate different access tools, data formats, management information systems, semantic web and databases. Different agents execute different tasks in each layer to achieve the purpose of integration and communication in a supply chain with less human intervention. Our approach emphasizes on the transparent connection manner among businesses. The proposed system can assist in business data and information sharing in a complex supply chain management.