The architecture of an intelligent virtual mathematical software repository system

Much reusable software is available for solving routine mathematical and statistical problems. Unfortunately, locating this software is often quite difficult in current distributed computing environments. The Guide to Available Mathematical Software (GAMS) virtual software repository seeks to remedy this by providing users with convenient access to thousands of software modules physically distributed among several Internet repositories, including netlib. In this paper the author will illustrate the use of GAMS, describe its implementation, and outline plans for the incorporation of expert advisory capabilities.