Building Agent-Based Intelligent Workspaces

The idea of weaving technology into the backdrop of natural human interactions is a long-standing vision [1]. To realize that dream, a number of technologies need to be developed. Distributed software systems need to allow large numbers of software components to locate and communicate with one another. Interfaces between humans and computers need to enable natural, unencumbered interaction. Environments need to be aware of what users are trying to do so that they can offer appropriate assistance. Intelligent tools and applications need to be built on top of these components. The Intelligent Room project has taken an agent-based approach to building and organizing these components. In this paper, we present concepts, technologies, and applications that we have developed to address these needs, ranging from low-level communication infrastructure to distributed applications with multi-modal interfaces. In doing so, we situate these technologies in the context of Intelligent Environments (IEs) which enhance day-to-day activities in a business environment.