| |  | Valeda, F. | Intelligent agent concepts in the modern library read moreAbstract: Purpose – Intelligent agents – software components designed to perform complex tasks for the user
(with or without the presence of the user) – are used in a variety of settings, from instant messaging
and web auctions, to ATM network management and air traffic control systems. The technology also
has applicability within libraries, adding a level of user-oriented control and flexibility to activities
such as digital collection management and virtual reference. The use of intelligent agents to assist
users with their searches has perhaps the greatest potential. The purpose of this article is to provide
background information on the use of agent technology in information settings, and review three
library-based projects that utilize agent technology in a practical way.
Design/methodology/approach – A comprehensive literature review combined with brief case
studies of practical applications of agent technology in three modern library settings. A conceptual
model of a virtual, agent-based personalized library is also presented.
Findings – Librarians and others in the information profession recognize the potential of agent
technology within the library setting. The paper presents a number of practical scenarios for using
agents, from supporting digital libraries and teaching information literacy to virtual reference.
Practical implications – There are numerous implications for current and future use of agent
technology in libraries, including how to engage IT staff in the development process, how to educate
users about the benefits of the technology, and how to make sure library professionals have the skill
set to allow them to participate in the conceptualization, design and implementation of agents.
Originality/value – There is a wealth of professional literature on agent technology and its uses,
mostly from a computing or engineering perspective. This paper has value in that it presents the
concept from a library perspective, and includes references to relevant library literature and projects. | 2007 |
| | | Milewski, Allen E. | Delegating to software agents read moreAbstract: There is currently a great deal of interest in the development of intelligent agents. While there is
little agreement on exactly what constitutes an intelligent agent, many definitions embody a user
interface model that differs from the traditional one where users perform tasks with the help of
computer-based “tools." In contrast, the "delegation" model associated with agents is based on
entrusting tasks to an autonomous, sometimes anthropomorphized system, whose performance
is monitored and evaluated. This change in user interface model is a dramatic one since
delegation can be a difficult and often-avoided behavior in humans. Agent interface designs need
to overcome well-established drawbacks in delegation. For this purpose, designers should find the
management sciences and organizational psychology literatures to be as relevant as that of
traditional human factors. This paper describes issues regarding task delegation as they pertain to
the design of intelligent agent user interfaces. | 1997 |
| | | Riecken, Doug | Intelligent agents read moreAbstract: Sorry no abstract available for this article | 1994 |
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