An approach to the analysis and design of multiagent systems based on interaction frames

This paper introduces InFFrA, a novel method for the analysis and design of multiagent systems that is based on the notions of interaction frames and framing. We lay out a conceptual framework for viewing multiagent systems (MAS) as societies consisting of socially intelligent agents that record and organise their interaction experience so as to use it strategically in future interactions. We also provide criteria for the class of MAS InFFrA is suited for. The benefits of our approach are that it helps to understand and develop socially intelligent agents as well as to identify shortcomings of existing MAS. The method is evaluated through the analysis of an opponent classification heuristic that is used to optimise strategic behaviour in multiagent games, and interesting issues for future research are discussed.