Application of agents in business process modelling

This diploma thesis deals with the usage of agents in business process modelling. The aim is to identify possible uses in the problem area and to evaluate their potential. Intended usage is analysed on the basis of the objectives of process modelling. Described in detail, it focuses on potential application of agents in a process modelling itself, in deploying executable and flexible processes, process improvements and finally in dynamic planning. A further objective is to provide an overview of current research and literature in problem area. To fulfil the goal available literature is analysed and basis approaches are demonstrated in case study. Paper does not address the implementation of multi-agent systems (MAS). Following introduction reader is guided though basic elements of the processes and their modelling, concept of agents and modelling of MAS. As a process modelling notation BPMN in planned 2.0 release was selected. Next section is devoted to the usage of agents. The last part of the work is a case study discussing the possibilities of agents application in company operating public car auctions. In addition the process model (BPMN) transformation to agent model is presented and further developed as a interconnection between process modelling and agent-based systems. Combination of agent approach with business rules and hybrid simulation are proposed as the most promising usages