Multi-Agent Systems and Microeconomic Theory: A Negotiation Approach to Solve Scheduling Problems in High Dynamic Environments

Microeconomics offer a far developed theory on the subject of rational choice. This theory is applied to a multi-agent system, which has been modeled in order to establish schedules for operating theatres in general hospitals. A concept based on conjoint analysis is introduced in order to measure preferences of involved individuals and to establish corresponding individual utility functions. Aggregation of individual preferences to find a final compromise schedule is demonstrated following the Nash bargaining solution of game theory.