Agent-based framework for pre-contractual evaluation of participants in project-delivery supply-chains

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to introduce an agent‐based model for partners' selection in inter‐organizational supply‐chains. Screening activities undertaken by the main contracting organization for the case of large project deliveries and parameters to be considered are identified, a multi‐level quantitative framework to support the decision‐making process in effectively selecting an efficient and a compatible set of partners is proposed. Different agent behaviours are introduced and modelled; their impact on the results of the bidding processes is analysed through a simulation model specifically developed for this purpose.Design/methodology/approach – Among the biggest challenges, companies confront with is the finding of appropriate action lines, methods or IT tools to overcome problems introduced by the saturation of the market, fierce competition and downfall of entry‐barriers. The paper uses a paradigm that is seen as one of the most promising in responding to the needs of modern companies...

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