Optimising SMEs by enhancing ASP
ASP normally involves business services that offer remote access to an application program across a network protocol such as http. For instance, in online ordering systems an ASP may be a web-site that is used by other web-sites for credit card payments. Normally, ASPs implement, customise, out-host and maintain business applications providing rapid, cost -efficient, and prompt employment of strategic business solutions. Multiple organisations use these business applications and enjoy the related benefits by paying on an "as you go" basis. This project combined the ASP model and certain value added features such as optimisation-based, customisable analytic engines and developed an optimised ASP model, called Optimisation Service Provider (OSP). This comprises generic components including a modelling system, an application data mart and a solver/optimiser. The modelling system allows the use of the symbolic optimisation model while the data mart constitutes a set of data to be used for model initiation and for storing the results. Finally, the optimiser is an algorithmic tool, capable of processing the symbolic model with data for producing user specified output. Furthermore, the offered OSP involves many innovations including integrated optimisation and ASP solutions that can work with the previous components. Additionally, models for supporting the deployment of optimisation solutions for a range of applications are reusable. Unlike deterministic environments, the novel uncertainty-based optimisation models are linked to realistic environments offering reliable short and long term planning and resource allocation. The provided solutions are also able to adapt to dynamic changes with the aid of progressive and flexible modelling of cross-sector and sector-wide parameters. Furthermore, technical expertise on decision-making is no longer required as application interfaces are now user friendlier. More than that, OSP multilingual training packages are expected to offer users experience to make the most of the OSP approach. Generic analytic engines for asset and liability management, logistics and supply chain planning as well as agricultural and environmental planning have already been developed. For more details, please check the OSP portal at: http://www.osp-craft.com(opens in new window)
