A Middle-Agent Framework Focused on the Role of Distributors

Abstract

In this paper, we propose to use a middle-agent framework to analyze a business model that is focused on distributors for win-win cooperation and collaboration by revealing the effect, the influence, and the requirement for consensus in cooperation and collaboration. Distributors can create good cooperation and collaboration by mediates between manufacturing and user companies. We give an example of the collaborative development of new products where a distributor mediating between maker and user companies. The Application Specific Standard Product (ASSP), which is an LSI for specific applications, is attracting attention. To develop an ASSP, both semiconductor and user companies must agree on the functions that the ASSP has and on how many ASSPs must be considered without dis- closing secret information. In this paper, we model distributors in a collaborative development and implement a tool for an agent-based simulation, in which we imagine a market where a product is developed, sold, and bought. We investigate the role of middle agents, distributors and how they affect the market. In addition, we propose a framework for examining a new business model.