This document provides an overview of Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM), which is a methodology for identifying relationships among factors related to a problem or issue. The key steps in ISM include identifying relevant factors, developing a structural self-interaction matrix to represent relationships between factors, converting this into a reachability matrix, partitioning the reachability matrix into levels, developing a digraph and interpretive structural model. ISM helps impose order on complex systems and can be used for applications like process design, strategic planning, and complex problem solving. While it provides a systematic approach, it also has limitations such as difficulty handling a large number of factors.
T OWARDS A S YSTEM D YNAMICS M ODELING M E- THOD B ASED ON DEMATELijcsit
This document proposes a new method for constructing system dynamics models that combines the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) technique with system dynamics modeling. DEMATEL is first used to systematically define and quantify causal relationships between variables in a system. The results from DEMATEL, including impact relation maps and a total influence matrix, are then used to derive the causal loop diagram and define variable weights in the stock-flow chart equations of the system dynamics model. This combined method aims to overcome limitations and subjectivity in traditional system dynamics modeling that relies solely on decision makers' mental models.
Improving Knowledge Handling by building intellegent social systemsnazeeh
This document discusses improving knowledge handling by building intelligent systems using social agent modelling. It proposes capturing knowledge from social environments by developing new features in social network analysis systems and using this knowledge to model multi-agent systems. The approach involves extending social network analysis to cover more qualitative factors like emotions, relationships and trust to better represent knowledge and simulate agent behavior. Capturing these social aspects from real networks can provide criteria to analyze and design intelligent multi-agent systems.
INTELLIGENT SOCIAL NETWORKS MODEL BASED ON SEMANTIC TAG RANKINGdannyijwest
Social Networks has become one of the most popular platforms to allow users to communicate, and share their interests without being at the same geographical location. With the great and rapid growth of Social Media sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter…etc. causes huge amount of user-generated content. Thus, the improvement in the information quality and integrity becomes a great challenge to all social media sites, which allows users to get the desired content or be linked to the best link relation using improved search / link technique. So introducing semantics to social networks will widen up the representation of the social networks. In this paper, a new model of social networks based on semantic tag ranking is introduced. This model is based on the concept of multi-agent systems. In this proposed model the representation of social links will be extended by the semantic relationships found in the vocabularies which are known as (tags) in most of social networks.The proposed model for the social media engine is based on enhanced Latent Dirichlet Allocation(E-LDA) as a semantic indexing algorithm, combined with Tag Rank as social network ranking algorithm. The improvements on (E-LDA) phase is done by optimizing (LDA) algorithm using the optimal parameters. Then a filter is introduced to enhance the final indexing output. In ranking phase, using Tag Rank based on the indexing phase has improved the output of the ranking. Simulation results of the proposed model have shown improvements in indexing and ranking output.
INTELLIGENT SOCIAL NETWORKS MODEL BASED ON SEMANTIC TAG RANKINGIJwest
The document presents a new model for intelligent social networks based on semantic tag ranking. It uses a multi-agent system approach with agents performing indexing and ranking. For indexing, it uses an enhanced Latent Dirichlet Allocation (E-LDA) model that optimizes LDA parameters. Tags above a threshold from E-LDA output are ranked using Tag Rank. Simulation results showed improvements in indexing and ranking over conventional methods. The model introduces semantics to social networks to improve search and link recommendation.
INTELLIGENT SOCIAL NETWORKS MODEL BASED ON SEMANTIC TAG RANKINGdannyijwest
Social Networks has become one of the most popular platforms to allow users to communicate, and share
their interests without being at the same geographical location. With the great and rapid growth of Social
Media sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter...etc. causes huge amount of user-generated content.
Thus, the improvement in the information quality and integrity becomes a great challenge to all social
media sites, which allows users to get the desired content or be linked to the best link relation using
improved search / link technique. So introducing semantics to social networks will widen up the
representation of the social networks.
The document discusses object-oriented design and analysis. It covers key aspects of the design phase including identifying classes, class responsibilities, and relationships between classes. The purposes of the design phase are to gather information for implementation, reduce implementation time and cost, and be the most time-consuming phase. Results of design include text descriptions and diagrams depicting relationships, usage scenarios, and state changes. The document also discusses translating analysis concepts into design, including understanding quality attributes, constraints, and requirements.
This study mainly focuses on how object-oriented analysis makes compatible with newly develop or other existing business computing application in a better way. This study also focuses on the modeling of the exact procedure or near to the exact procedure within its application domain which may model by using different objects class. Objects are basically structured into different classes of objects which are generally related to behaviors and characteristics. These methodologies may use different generalization, classification, and different aggregation as a structure object assemblies for the target actions like services or activities which are related to the objects. There are numerous misconceptions related to object oriented analysis which are required to address when we consider the use of any object-oriented method. In this paper try to represent different advantages and various application of the UML in the field of automatic system analysis and modeling. The platform presented here is a comprehensive range of the different UML templates with all other required information.
Implementation of SEM Partial Least Square in Analyzing the UTAUT ModelAJHSSR Journal
ABSTRACT:Partial Least Squares (PLS) Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) is a statistical technique
used to analyze the expected connections between constructs by evaluating the existence of correlations or
impacts among these constructs. The objective of this work is to employ the Structural Equation Modeling
(SEM) technique, specifically Partial Least Squares (PLS), to investigate the Unified Theory of Acceptance and
Use of Technology (UTAUT) model in the specific domain of payment technology acceptance and utilization.
The UTAUT model encompasses latent variables classified into independent, mediator, moderator, and
dependent categories. Hence, the appropriate approach, the partial least squares structural equation modeling
(PLS-SEM) method, was chosen. The rationale behind this decision is the capability of PLS-SEM to assess
models with a relatively limited dataset, as demonstrated in this study, which included a sample of 50
participants. This study employs a quantitative methodology utilizing a survey-based approach to gather data via
questionnaires. The UTAUT model in the technology acceptance and use domain was accurately assessed by
PLS-SEM, as evidenced by the findings. The findings have substantial implications for comprehending the
factors that influence the adoption of payment technology, specifically focusing on the linkages between
constructs in the UTAUT model. This research validates the model and establishes a foundation for a more
profound comprehension of user behavior in accepting and utilizing payment technologies. Ultimately, using
PLS-SEM demonstrated its efficacy in examining the UTAUT model.
KEYWORDS :Structural Equation Model, Partial Least Square, UTAUT
T OWARDS A S YSTEM D YNAMICS M ODELING M E- THOD B ASED ON DEMATELijcsit
This document proposes a new method for constructing system dynamics models that combines the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) technique with system dynamics modeling. DEMATEL is first used to systematically define and quantify causal relationships between variables in a system. The results from DEMATEL, including impact relation maps and a total influence matrix, are then used to derive the causal loop diagram and define variable weights in the stock-flow chart equations of the system dynamics model. This combined method aims to overcome limitations and subjectivity in traditional system dynamics modeling that relies solely on decision makers' mental models.
Improving Knowledge Handling by building intellegent social systemsnazeeh
This document discusses improving knowledge handling by building intelligent systems using social agent modelling. It proposes capturing knowledge from social environments by developing new features in social network analysis systems and using this knowledge to model multi-agent systems. The approach involves extending social network analysis to cover more qualitative factors like emotions, relationships and trust to better represent knowledge and simulate agent behavior. Capturing these social aspects from real networks can provide criteria to analyze and design intelligent multi-agent systems.
INTELLIGENT SOCIAL NETWORKS MODEL BASED ON SEMANTIC TAG RANKINGdannyijwest
Social Networks has become one of the most popular platforms to allow users to communicate, and share their interests without being at the same geographical location. With the great and rapid growth of Social Media sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter…etc. causes huge amount of user-generated content. Thus, the improvement in the information quality and integrity becomes a great challenge to all social media sites, which allows users to get the desired content or be linked to the best link relation using improved search / link technique. So introducing semantics to social networks will widen up the representation of the social networks. In this paper, a new model of social networks based on semantic tag ranking is introduced. This model is based on the concept of multi-agent systems. In this proposed model the representation of social links will be extended by the semantic relationships found in the vocabularies which are known as (tags) in most of social networks.The proposed model for the social media engine is based on enhanced Latent Dirichlet Allocation(E-LDA) as a semantic indexing algorithm, combined with Tag Rank as social network ranking algorithm. The improvements on (E-LDA) phase is done by optimizing (LDA) algorithm using the optimal parameters. Then a filter is introduced to enhance the final indexing output. In ranking phase, using Tag Rank based on the indexing phase has improved the output of the ranking. Simulation results of the proposed model have shown improvements in indexing and ranking output.
INTELLIGENT SOCIAL NETWORKS MODEL BASED ON SEMANTIC TAG RANKINGIJwest
The document presents a new model for intelligent social networks based on semantic tag ranking. It uses a multi-agent system approach with agents performing indexing and ranking. For indexing, it uses an enhanced Latent Dirichlet Allocation (E-LDA) model that optimizes LDA parameters. Tags above a threshold from E-LDA output are ranked using Tag Rank. Simulation results showed improvements in indexing and ranking over conventional methods. The model introduces semantics to social networks to improve search and link recommendation.
INTELLIGENT SOCIAL NETWORKS MODEL BASED ON SEMANTIC TAG RANKINGdannyijwest
Social Networks has become one of the most popular platforms to allow users to communicate, and share
their interests without being at the same geographical location. With the great and rapid growth of Social
Media sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter...etc. causes huge amount of user-generated content.
Thus, the improvement in the information quality and integrity becomes a great challenge to all social
media sites, which allows users to get the desired content or be linked to the best link relation using
improved search / link technique. So introducing semantics to social networks will widen up the
representation of the social networks.
The document discusses object-oriented design and analysis. It covers key aspects of the design phase including identifying classes, class responsibilities, and relationships between classes. The purposes of the design phase are to gather information for implementation, reduce implementation time and cost, and be the most time-consuming phase. Results of design include text descriptions and diagrams depicting relationships, usage scenarios, and state changes. The document also discusses translating analysis concepts into design, including understanding quality attributes, constraints, and requirements.
This study mainly focuses on how object-oriented analysis makes compatible with newly develop or other existing business computing application in a better way. This study also focuses on the modeling of the exact procedure or near to the exact procedure within its application domain which may model by using different objects class. Objects are basically structured into different classes of objects which are generally related to behaviors and characteristics. These methodologies may use different generalization, classification, and different aggregation as a structure object assemblies for the target actions like services or activities which are related to the objects. There are numerous misconceptions related to object oriented analysis which are required to address when we consider the use of any object-oriented method. In this paper try to represent different advantages and various application of the UML in the field of automatic system analysis and modeling. The platform presented here is a comprehensive range of the different UML templates with all other required information.
Implementation of SEM Partial Least Square in Analyzing the UTAUT ModelAJHSSR Journal
ABSTRACT:Partial Least Squares (PLS) Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) is a statistical technique
used to analyze the expected connections between constructs by evaluating the existence of correlations or
impacts among these constructs. The objective of this work is to employ the Structural Equation Modeling
(SEM) technique, specifically Partial Least Squares (PLS), to investigate the Unified Theory of Acceptance and
Use of Technology (UTAUT) model in the specific domain of payment technology acceptance and utilization.
The UTAUT model encompasses latent variables classified into independent, mediator, moderator, and
dependent categories. Hence, the appropriate approach, the partial least squares structural equation modeling
(PLS-SEM) method, was chosen. The rationale behind this decision is the capability of PLS-SEM to assess
models with a relatively limited dataset, as demonstrated in this study, which included a sample of 50
participants. This study employs a quantitative methodology utilizing a survey-based approach to gather data via
questionnaires. The UTAUT model in the technology acceptance and use domain was accurately assessed by
PLS-SEM, as evidenced by the findings. The findings have substantial implications for comprehending the
factors that influence the adoption of payment technology, specifically focusing on the linkages between
constructs in the UTAUT model. This research validates the model and establishes a foundation for a more
profound comprehension of user behavior in accepting and utilizing payment technologies. Ultimately, using
PLS-SEM demonstrated its efficacy in examining the UTAUT model.
KEYWORDS :Structural Equation Model, Partial Least Square, UTAUT
The document discusses different types of system models, including context models, interaction models, structural models, and behavioral models. It provides examples of each type of model using a case study of a mental health care patient management system (MHC-PMS). Context models show the environment and other related systems. Interaction models include use case diagrams and sequence diagrams to illustrate interactions between users and the system. Structural models, like class diagrams, depict the organization and architecture of a system through classes and their relationships.
The social network analysis (SNA), branch of complex systems can be used in the construction of multiagent
systems. This paper proposes a study of how social network analysis can assist in modeling multiagent
systems, while addressing similarities and differences between the two theories. We built a prototype
of multi-agent systems for resolution of tasks through the formation of teams of agents that are formed on
the basis of the social network established between agents. Agents make use of performance indicators to
assess when should change their social network to maximize the participation in teams.
This document discusses system modeling and provides examples of different types of system models. It begins by defining system modeling as representing a system using graphical notation, often based on the Unified Modeling Language (UML). It then describes context models, interaction models like use case and sequence diagrams, and structural models including class and generalization diagrams. Behavioral models are also covered, including data-driven models using activity diagrams and event-driven models using state diagrams. The document concludes by discussing model-driven engineering and how models can be used to generate implementation code.
The Design of Cognitive Social Simulation Framework using Statistical Methodo...IJORCS
Modeling the behavior of the cognitive architecture in the context of social simulation using statistical methodologies is currently a growing research area. Normally, a cognitive architecture for an intelligent agent involves artificial computational process which exemplifies theories of cognition in computer algorithms under the consideration of state space. More specifically, for such cognitive system with large state space the problem like large tables and data sparsity are faced. Hence in this paper, we have proposed a method using a value iterative approach based on Q-learning algorithm, with function approximation technique to handle the cognitive systems with large state space. From the experimental results in the application domain of academic science it has been verified that the proposed approach has better performance compared to its existing approaches.
A SIMILARITY MEASURE FOR CATEGORIZING THE DEVELOPERS PROFILE IN A SOFTWARE PR...csandit
Software development processes need to have an integrated environment that fulfills specific
developer needs. In this context, this paper describes the modeling approach SAGM ((Similarity
for Adaptive Guidance Model) that provides adaptive recursive guidance for software
processes, and specifically tailored regarding the profile of developers. A profile is defined from
a model of developers, through their roles, their qualifications, and through the relationships
between the context of the current activity and the model of the activities. This approach
presents a similarity measure that evaluates the similarities between the profiles created from
the model of developers and those of the development team involved in the execution of a
software process. This is to identify the profiles classification and to deduce the appropriate
type of assistance (that can be corrective, constructive or specific) to developers.
The document proposes an improved clustering algorithm for social network analysis. It combines BSP (Business System Planning) clustering with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to group social network objects into classes based on their links and attributes. Specifically, it applies PCA before BSP clustering to reduce the dimensionality of the social network data and retain only the most important variables for clustering. This improves the BSP clustering results by focusing on the key information in the social network.
11.software modules clustering an effective approach for reusabilityAlexander Decker
This document summarizes previous work on using clustering techniques for software module classification and reusability. It discusses hierarchical clustering and non-hierarchical clustering methods. Previous studies have used these techniques for software component classification, identifying reusable software modules, course clustering based on industry needs, mobile phone clustering based on attributes, and customer clustering based on electricity load. The document provides background on clustering analysis and its uses in various domains including software testing, pattern recognition, and software restructuring.
Access To Specific Declarative Knowledge By Expert Systems The Impact Of Log...Audrey Britton
The document discusses four strategies for expert systems to access specific declarative knowledge from databases:
1. Elementary database access within the expert system, where knowledge is directly represented in the knowledge base.
2. Generalized database management within the expert system, using secondary storage management and indexing.
3. Loose coupling of the expert system with an external database management system (DBMS), extracting a snapshot of required data.
4. Tight coupling of the expert system with an external DBMS, with an online communication channel to dynamically query the DBMS.
International Journal of Engineering Research and Applications (IJERA) is an open access online peer reviewed international journal that publishes research and review articles in the fields of Computer Science, Neural Networks, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Plastic Engineering, Food Technology, Textile Engineering, Nano Technology & science, Power Electronics, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Computational mathematics, Image processing, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, VLSI Testing & Low Power VLSI Design etc.
Towards to an Agent-Oriented Modeling and Evaluating Approach for Vehicular S...Zac Darcy
1) The document proposes an agent-oriented meta-model for modeling and evaluating vehicular systems security.
2) It extends the existing Extended Gaia meta-model to build a new meta-model suited for modeling transportation problems.
3) The new meta-model adds concepts like functional requirement, non-functional requirement, agent model, and organization model to allow modeling of transportation system requirements and behaviors.
Towards to an agent oriented modeling and evaluating approach for vehicular s...Zac Darcy
Agent technology is a software paradigm that permits to implement large and complex distributed
applications. In order to assist the development of multi-agent systems, agent-oriented methodologies
(AOM) have been created in the last years to support modeling more and more complex applications in
many different domains. By defining in a non-ambiguous way concepts used in a specific domain, Meta
modeling may represent a step towards such interoperability. In the Transport domain, this paper propose
an agent-oriented meta-model that provides rigorous concepts for conducting transportation system
problem modeling. The aim is to allow analysts to produce a transportation system model that precisely
captures the knowledge of an organization so that an agent-oriented requirements specification of the
system-to-be and its operational corporate environment can be derived from it. To this end, we extend and
adapt an existing meta-model, Extended Gaia, to build a meta-model and an adequate model for
transportation problems. Our new agent-oriented meta-model aims to allow the analyst to model and
specify any transportation system as a multi-agent system. Based on the proposed meta-model, we proposes
an approach for modeling and evaluating the Transportation System based on Stochastic Activity Network
(SAN) components. The proposed process is based on seven steps from “Recognition” phase to
“Quantitative Analysis” phase. These analyzes are based on the Dependability models which are built
using the formalism Stochastic Activity Network. A real case study of Urban Public Transportation System
has been conducted to show the benefits of the approach.
Software Design Patterns - An OverviewFarwa Ansari
The document summarizes different types of software design patterns. It discusses creational patterns, which deal with object creation mechanisms and increase flexibility. Examples include abstract factory, builder, factory method, prototype and singleton patterns. Structural patterns provide relationships between classes and objects, such as adapter, bridge, composite, and decorator. Behavioral patterns define communication between classes, for example chain of responsibility, command, interpreter, and observer. Design patterns are reusable solutions to common programming problems and increase flexibility and reuse in software design.
International Journal of Computational Engineering Research (IJCER) is dedicated to protecting personal information and will make every reasonable effort to handle collected information appropriately. All information collected, as well as related requests, will be handled as carefully and efficiently as possible in accordance with IJCER standards for integrity and objectivity.
Study on Theoretical Aspects of Virtual Data Integration and its ApplicationsIJERA Editor
Data integration is the technique of merging data residing at different sources at different locations, and
providing users with an integrated, reconciled view of these data. Such unified view is called global or mediated
schema. It represents the intentional level of the integrated and reconciled data. In the data integration system,
our area of interest in this paper is characterized by an architecture based on a global schema and a set of
sources or source schemas. The objective of this paper is to provide a study on the theoretical aspects of data
integration systems and to present a comprehensive review of the applications of data integration in various
fields including biomedicine, environment, and social networks. It also discusses a privacy framework for
protecting user’s privacy with privacy views and privacy policies.
Study on Theoretical Aspects of Virtual Data Integration and its ApplicationsIJERA Editor
Data integration is the technique of merging data residing at different sources at different locations, and
providing users with an integrated, reconciled view of these data. Such unified view is called global or mediated
schema. It represents the intentional level of the integrated and reconciled data. In the data integration system,
our area of interest in this paper is characterized by an architecture based on a global schema and a set of
sources or source schemas. The objective of this paper is to provide a study on the theoretical aspects of data
integration systems and to present a comprehensive review of the applications of data integration in various
fields including biomedicine, environment, and social networks. It also discusses a privacy framework for
protecting user’s privacy with privacy views and privacy policies.
Data modeling is the process of creating a visual representation of data within an information system to illustrate the relationships between different data types and structures. The goal is to model data at conceptual, logical, and physical levels to support business needs and requirements. Conceptual models provide an overview of key entities and relationships, logical models add greater detail, and physical models specify how data will be stored in databases. Data modeling benefits include reduced errors, improved communication and performance, and easier management of data mapping.
Introduction to Object orientation , Modeling as a Design Technique Modeling ...DhwaniDesai21
This document provides an overview of object-oriented modeling concepts including the class model, state model, and interaction model. It discusses modeling as a design technique and introduces key concepts like abstraction. It then describes the three models in more detail providing examples of each. The class model represents static structure, the state model represents dynamic behavior over time, and the interaction model represents collaboration between objects.
An Assignment On Information System Modeling On Teaching Data And Process Int...Andrea Porter
This document proposes an assignment for teaching undergraduate students about information system modeling in an integrated way that considers both data and process constraints. Traditionally, data and process modeling are taught separately in different courses. However, the authors argue this fragmented approach leads to students being unable to leverage the synergy between data and process constraints when modeling systems. The proposed assignment requires students to model an information system for a private teaching institute considering both data and process requirements. It aims to address challenges experienced by students when modeling these aspects separately. A new tool is also proposed to support representing the interplay between data and process constraints in an integrated model.
This document discusses various system modeling techniques, including context models, interaction models, structural models, and behavioral models. It provides examples of each type of model using the Unified Modeling Language (UML). Context models show the system and its relationships to other external systems. Interaction models include use case diagrams and sequence diagrams. Structural models include class diagrams, which depict classes and relationships. Behavioral models show how a system responds to events. The document also discusses object-oriented design, implementation issues, and open source development.
This document discusses object-oriented concepts and modeling. It begins by listing three textbooks on these topics. It then provides an overview of object-oriented concepts like objects, classes, inheritance, polymorphism, and encapsulation. It describes the stages of object-oriented analysis, design and implementation. It discusses the three main models used in object-oriented modeling: class models, state models, and interaction models. Finally, it covers object-oriented themes like abstraction, encapsulation, and polymorphism and the purposes of modeling.
Expanding Access to Affordable At-Home EV Charging by Vanessa WarheitForth
Vanessa Warheit, Co-Founder of EV Charging for All, gave this presentation at the Forth Addressing The Challenges of Charging at Multi-Family Housing webinar on June 11, 2024.
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The document discusses different types of system models, including context models, interaction models, structural models, and behavioral models. It provides examples of each type of model using a case study of a mental health care patient management system (MHC-PMS). Context models show the environment and other related systems. Interaction models include use case diagrams and sequence diagrams to illustrate interactions between users and the system. Structural models, like class diagrams, depict the organization and architecture of a system through classes and their relationships.
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The Design of Cognitive Social Simulation Framework using Statistical Methodo...IJORCS
Modeling the behavior of the cognitive architecture in the context of social simulation using statistical methodologies is currently a growing research area. Normally, a cognitive architecture for an intelligent agent involves artificial computational process which exemplifies theories of cognition in computer algorithms under the consideration of state space. More specifically, for such cognitive system with large state space the problem like large tables and data sparsity are faced. Hence in this paper, we have proposed a method using a value iterative approach based on Q-learning algorithm, with function approximation technique to handle the cognitive systems with large state space. From the experimental results in the application domain of academic science it has been verified that the proposed approach has better performance compared to its existing approaches.
A SIMILARITY MEASURE FOR CATEGORIZING THE DEVELOPERS PROFILE IN A SOFTWARE PR...csandit
Software development processes need to have an integrated environment that fulfills specific
developer needs. In this context, this paper describes the modeling approach SAGM ((Similarity
for Adaptive Guidance Model) that provides adaptive recursive guidance for software
processes, and specifically tailored regarding the profile of developers. A profile is defined from
a model of developers, through their roles, their qualifications, and through the relationships
between the context of the current activity and the model of the activities. This approach
presents a similarity measure that evaluates the similarities between the profiles created from
the model of developers and those of the development team involved in the execution of a
software process. This is to identify the profiles classification and to deduce the appropriate
type of assistance (that can be corrective, constructive or specific) to developers.
The document proposes an improved clustering algorithm for social network analysis. It combines BSP (Business System Planning) clustering with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to group social network objects into classes based on their links and attributes. Specifically, it applies PCA before BSP clustering to reduce the dimensionality of the social network data and retain only the most important variables for clustering. This improves the BSP clustering results by focusing on the key information in the social network.
11.software modules clustering an effective approach for reusabilityAlexander Decker
This document summarizes previous work on using clustering techniques for software module classification and reusability. It discusses hierarchical clustering and non-hierarchical clustering methods. Previous studies have used these techniques for software component classification, identifying reusable software modules, course clustering based on industry needs, mobile phone clustering based on attributes, and customer clustering based on electricity load. The document provides background on clustering analysis and its uses in various domains including software testing, pattern recognition, and software restructuring.
Access To Specific Declarative Knowledge By Expert Systems The Impact Of Log...Audrey Britton
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1. Elementary database access within the expert system, where knowledge is directly represented in the knowledge base.
2. Generalized database management within the expert system, using secondary storage management and indexing.
3. Loose coupling of the expert system with an external database management system (DBMS), extracting a snapshot of required data.
4. Tight coupling of the expert system with an external DBMS, with an online communication channel to dynamically query the DBMS.
International Journal of Engineering Research and Applications (IJERA) is an open access online peer reviewed international journal that publishes research and review articles in the fields of Computer Science, Neural Networks, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Plastic Engineering, Food Technology, Textile Engineering, Nano Technology & science, Power Electronics, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Computational mathematics, Image processing, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, VLSI Testing & Low Power VLSI Design etc.
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2) It extends the existing Extended Gaia meta-model to build a new meta-model suited for modeling transportation problems.
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Agent technology is a software paradigm that permits to implement large and complex distributed
applications. In order to assist the development of multi-agent systems, agent-oriented methodologies
(AOM) have been created in the last years to support modeling more and more complex applications in
many different domains. By defining in a non-ambiguous way concepts used in a specific domain, Meta
modeling may represent a step towards such interoperability. In the Transport domain, this paper propose
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system-to-be and its operational corporate environment can be derived from it. To this end, we extend and
adapt an existing meta-model, Extended Gaia, to build a meta-model and an adequate model for
transportation problems. Our new agent-oriented meta-model aims to allow the analyst to model and
specify any transportation system as a multi-agent system. Based on the proposed meta-model, we proposes
an approach for modeling and evaluating the Transportation System based on Stochastic Activity Network
(SAN) components. The proposed process is based on seven steps from “Recognition” phase to
“Quantitative Analysis” phase. These analyzes are based on the Dependability models which are built
using the formalism Stochastic Activity Network. A real case study of Urban Public Transportation System
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Study on Theoretical Aspects of Virtual Data Integration and its ApplicationsIJERA Editor
Data integration is the technique of merging data residing at different sources at different locations, and
providing users with an integrated, reconciled view of these data. Such unified view is called global or mediated
schema. It represents the intentional level of the integrated and reconciled data. In the data integration system,
our area of interest in this paper is characterized by an architecture based on a global schema and a set of
sources or source schemas. The objective of this paper is to provide a study on the theoretical aspects of data
integration systems and to present a comprehensive review of the applications of data integration in various
fields including biomedicine, environment, and social networks. It also discusses a privacy framework for
protecting user’s privacy with privacy views and privacy policies.
Study on Theoretical Aspects of Virtual Data Integration and its ApplicationsIJERA Editor
Data integration is the technique of merging data residing at different sources at different locations, and
providing users with an integrated, reconciled view of these data. Such unified view is called global or mediated
schema. It represents the intentional level of the integrated and reconciled data. In the data integration system,
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1. Research Journal of Management Sciences ____________________________________________ ISSN 2319–1171
Vol. 2(2), 3-8, February (2013) Res. J. Management Sci.
International Science Congress Association 3
Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) approach: An Overview
Rajesh Attri1
, Nikhil Dev1
and Vivek Sharma2
1
Department of Mechanical Engineering, YMCA University of Science and Technology, Faridabad, INDIA
2
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Advanced Institute of Technology and Management, Palwal, INDIA
Available online at: www.isca.in
Received 27th
November 2012, revised 27th
January 2013, accepted 1st
February 2013
Abstract
Interpretive structural modelling (ISM) is a well-established methodology for identifying relationships among specific items,
which define a problem or an issue. This approach has been increasingly used by various researchers to represent the
interrelationships among various elements related to the issue. ISM approach starts with an identification of variables,
which are relevant to the problem or issue. Then a contextually relevant subordinate relation is chosen. Having decided the
contextual relation, a structural self-interaction matrix (SSIM) is developed based on pairwise comparison of variables. After
this, SSIM is converted into a reachability matrix (RM) and its transitivity is checked. Once transitivity embedding is
complete, a matrix model is obtained. Then, the partitioning of the elements and an extraction of the structural model called
ISM is derived. In this paper, key concept of ISM approach is discussed in detail.
Keywords: ISM, SSIM, RM, variable, modelling.
Introduction
It is generally felt that individuals or groups encounter
difficulties in dealing with complex issues or systems. The
complexity of the issues or systems is due to the presence of a
large number of elements and interactions among these
elements. The presence of directly or indirectly related elements
complicates the structure of the system which may or may not
be articulated in a clear fashion. It becomes difficult to deal with
such a system in which structure is not clearly defined. Hence, it
necessitates the development of a methodology which aids in
identifying a structure within a system. Interpretive structural
modelling (ISM) is such a methodology1
.
ISM is defined as a process aimed at assisting the human being
to better understand what he/she believes and to recognise
clearly what he/she does not know. Its most essential function is
organisational. The information added (by the process) is zero.
The value added is structural2
. The ISM process transforms
unclear, poorly articulated mental models of systems into visible
and well-defined models.
Interpretive structural modelling (ISM): ISM is an
interactive learning process. In this technique, a set of different
directly and indirectly related elements are structured into a
comprehensive systematic model3,4
. The model so formed
portrays the structure of a complex issue or problem in a
carefully designed pattern implying graphics as well as words1, 5,
6, 7
.
Interpretive structural modeling (ISM) is a well-established
methodology for identifying relationships among specific items,
which define a problem or an issue8
. For any complex problem
under consideration, a number of factors may be related to an
issue or problem. However, the direct and indirect relationships
between the factors describe the situation far more accurately
than the individual factor taken into isolation. Therefore, ISM
develops insights into collective understandings of these
relationships.
ISM starts with an identification of variables, which are relevant
to the problem or issue, and then extends with a group problem-
solving technique. Then a contextually relevant subordinate
relation is chosen. Having decided on the element set and the
contextual relation, a structural self-interaction matrix (SSIM) is
developed based on pairwise comparison of variables. In the
next step, the SSIM is converted into a reachability matrix (RM)
and its transitivity is checked. Once transitivity embedding is
complete, a matrix model is obtained. Then, the partitioning of
the elements and an extraction of the structural model called
ISM is derived9
.
In this approach, a systematic application of some elementary
notions of graph theory is used in such a way that theoretical,
conceptual and computational leverage are exploited to explain
the complex pattern of contextual relationship among a set of
variables. ISM is intended for use when desired to utilise
systematic and logical thinking to approach a complex issue
under consideration10
.
Interpretive Structural Modeling is a computer-aided method for
developing graphical representations of system composition and
structure. ISM had its inception in Warfield’s4
perception of the
need, when attempting to couple science to policy, for “a set of
communication tools which have both a scientific and lay
character serving as a linkage mechanism between science and
the public, and having meaning for all who are involved” and
which, in particular, are capable of communicating a holistic
2. Research Journal of Management Sciences ________________________________________________________ ISSN 2319–1171
Vol. 2(2), 3-8, February (2013) Res. J. Management Sci.
International Science Congress Association 4
sense of the elements and their relations which define system
structure.
Warfield4
stipulates a set of requirements for these
communication tools which include i. Provision for the
inclusion of the scientific elements ii. Means for exhibiting a
complex set of relations iii. Means for showing that complex set
of relations which permit continuous observation, questioning
and modification of the relations iv Congruence with the
originators’ perceptions and analytical processes v. Ease of
learning by public (or, by inference, multidisciplinary) audience.
Graphical models or, more specifically, directed graphs
(digraphs) appear to satisfy these requirements. In such a
representation, the elements or components of a system are
represented by the “points” of the graph and the existence of a
particular relationship between elements is indicated by the
presence of a directed line segment. It is this concept of
relatedness in the context of a particular relationship which
distinguishes a system from a mere aggregation of
components11
.
Characteristics of ISM: This methodology is interpretive as
the judgment of the group decides whether and how the
different elements are related. It is structural on the basis of
mutual relationship; an overall structure is extracted from the
complex set of elements. It is a modeling technique, as the
specific relationships and overall structure are portrayed in a
digraph model. It helps to impose order and direction on the
complexity of relationships among various elements of a
system3, 6
. It is primarily intended as a group learning process,
but individuals can also use it.
Figure-1
Flow diagram for preparing ISM model
Establishing contextual relationship between Xij
between variables (i, j)
Developing a structural self-interaction matrix
(SSIM)
Partitioning the reachibility matrix into different
levels
Developing the reachibility matrix in its conical
form
Developing digraph
Removing transitivity from
the diagraph
Replacing variables nodes with
relationship statements
Representing relationship statement into model for factors
related to an issue
Obtaining expert opinion
Developing a reachibility matrix
Is there any
conceptual
inconsistency?
No
Yes
Necessary
modification
Literature review on Issue
List of factor related to an issue
3. Research Journal of Management Sciences ________________________________________________________ ISSN 2319–1171
Vol. 2(2), 3-8, February (2013) Res. J. Management Sci.
International Science Congress Association 5
Steps involved in ISM methodology: Warfield4
developed a
methodology that uses systematic application of some
elementary notions of graph theory and Boolean algebra in such
a way that when implemented in a man machine interactive
mode, theoretical, conceptual and computational leverage is
exploited to construct directed graph (a representation of the
hierarchical structure of the system). This methodology has at
least two desirable properties when compared to the similar
approaches namely simplicity in the sense of not requiring from
the user i.e. viewpoint of advance mathematical knowledge and
efficiency in terms of economizing in computer time.
The various steps involved in ISM modeling are as follows: i.
Identify the elements which are relevant to the problem. This
could be done by a survey or group problem solving technique.
ii. Establish a contextual relationship between elements with
respect to which pairs of elements would be examined. iii.
Develop a structural self-interaction matrix (SSIM) of elements.
This matrix indicates the pair-wise relationship among elements
of the system. This matrix is checked for transitivity. iv.
Develop a reachability matrix from the SSIM. v. Partition the
reachability matrix into different levels. vi. Convert the
reachability matrix into conical form. vii. Draw digraph based
on the relationship given in reachability matrix and remove
transitive links. viii. Convert the resultant digraph into an ISM-
based model by replacing element nodes with the statements. ix.
Review the model to check for conceptual inconsistency and
make the necessary modifications.
Various steps involved in ISM technique are illustrated in figure 1.
The various steps, which lead to the development of an ISM
model, are illustrated below.
Step 1: Structural Self-Interaction Matrix (SSIM): ISM
methodology suggests the use of the expert opinions based on
various management techniques such as brain storming, nominal
group technique, etc. in developing the contextual relationship
among the variables10,12,13
. For this purpose, experts from the
industry and academia should be consulted in identifying the
nature of contextual relationship among the factors. These
experts from the industry and academia should be well
conversant with the problem under consideration. For analysing
the factors, a contextual relationship of ‘leads to’ or ‘influences’
type must be chosen. This means that one factor influences
another factor. On the basis of this, contextual relationship
between the identified factors is developed.
Keeping in mind the contextual relationship for each factor and
the existence of a relationship between any two factors (i and j),
the associated direction of the relationship is questioned. The
following four symbols are used to denote the direction of
relationship between two factors (i and j): (a) V for the relation
from factor i to factor j (i.e., factor i will influence factor j) (b) A
for the relation from factor j to factor i (i.e., factor i will be
influenced by factor j) (c) X for both direction relations (i.e.,
factors i and j will influence each other) (d) O for no relation
between the factors (i.e., barriers i and j are unrelated).
Based on the contextual relationships, the SSIM is developed.
To obtain consensus, the SSIM should be further discussed by a
group of experts. On the basis of their responses, SSIM must be
finalised.
Step 2: Reachability Matrix: The next step in ISM approach is
to develop an initial reachability matrix from SSIM. For this,
SSIM is converted into the initial reachability matrix by
substituting the four symbols (i.e., V, A, X or O) of SSIM by 1s
or 0s in the initial reachability matrix.
The rules for this substitution are as follows: (a) If the (i, j) entry
in the SSIM is V, then the (i, j) entry in the reachability matrix
becomes 1 and the (j, i) entry becomes 0. (b) If the (i, j) entry in
the SSIM is A, then the (i, j) entry in the matrix becomes 0 and
the (j, i) entry becomes 1. (c) If the (i, j) entry in the SSIM is X,
then the (i, j) entry in the matrix becomes 1 and the (j, i) entry
also becomes 1. (d) If the (i, j) entry in the SSIM is O, then the
(i, j) entry in the matrix becomes 0 and the (j, i) entry also
becomes 0.
Following these rules, the initial reachability matrix is prepared.
1* entries are included to incorporate transitivity to fill the gap,
if any, in the opinion collected during development of structural
self-instructional matrix. After incorporating the transitivity
concept as described above, the final reachability matrix is
obtained.
Step 3: Level partitions: From the final reachability matrix, for
each factor, reachability set and antecedent sets are derived. The
reachability set consists of the factor itself and the other factor
that it may impact, whereas the antecedent set consists of the
factor itself and the other factor that may impact it. Thereafter,
the intersection of these sets is derived for all the factors and
levels of different factor are determined. The factors for which
the reachability and the intersection sets are the same occupy the
top level in the ISM hierarchy. The top-level factors are those
factors that will not lead the other factors above their own level
in the hierarchy. Once the top-level factor is identified, it is
removed from consideration. Then, the same process is repeated
to find out the factors in the next level. This process is
continued until the level of each factor is found. These levels
help in building the diagraph and the ISM model.
Step 4: Conical matrix: Conical matrix is developed by
clustering factors in the same level across the rows and columns
of the final reachability matrix. The drive power of a factor is
derived by summing up the number of ones in the rows and its
dependence power by summing up the number of ones in the
columns14, 15, 16
. Next, drive power and dependence power ranks
are calculated by giving highest ranks to the factors that have
the maximum number of ones in the rows and columns,
respectively.
4. Research Journal of Management Sciences ________________________________________________________ ISSN 2319–1171
Vol. 2(2), 3-8, February (2013) Res. J. Management Sci.
International Science Congress Association 6
Step 5: Digraph: From the conical form of reachability matrix,
the preliminary digraph including transitive links is obtained. It
is generated by nodes and lines of edges7,14, 15,16
. After removing
the indirect links, a final digraph is developed. A digraph is used
to represent the elements and their interdependencies in terms of
nodes and edges or in other words digraph is the visual
representation of the elements and their interdependence17,18
. In
this development, the top level factor is positioned at the top of
the digraph and second level factor is placed at second position
and so on, until the bottom level is placed at the lowest position
in the digraph.
Step 6: ISM Model: Digraph is converted into an ISM model
by replacing nodes of the factors with statements.
Advantages of ISM approach: ISM offers a variety of
advantages like: i The process is systematic; the computer is
programmed to consider all possible pair wise relations of
system elements, either directly from the responses of the
participants or by transitive inference. ii The process is efficient;
depending on the context, the use of transitive inference may
reduce the number of the required relational queries by from 50-
80 percent. iii No knowledge of the underlying process is
required of the participants; they simply must possess enough
understanding of the object system to be able to respond to the
series of relational queries generated by the computer. iv It
guides and records the results of group deliberations on complex
issues in an efficient and systematic manner. v It produces a
structured model or graphical representation of the original
problem situation that can be communicated more effectively to
others. vi It enhances the quality of interdisciplinary and
interpersonal communication within the context of the problem
situation by focusing the attention of the participants on one
specific question at a time. vii It encourages issue analysis by
allowing participants to explore the adequacy of a proposed list
of systems elements or issue statements for illuminating a
specified situation. viii It serves as a learning tool by forcing
participants to develop a deeper understanding of the meaning
and significance of a specified element list and relation. ix It
permits action or policy analysis by assisting participants in
identifying particular areas for policy action which offer
advantages or leverage in pursuing specified objectives.
Limitations of ISM approach: There may be many variable
to a problem or issue. Increase in the number of variables to a
problem or issue increases the complexity of the ISM
methodology. So we can only consider limited number of
variables in the development of ISM model. Other variables
which are least affecting a problem or issue may not be taken
in the development of ISM model. Further experts help are
taken in analyzing the driving and dependence power of the
variable of a problem or issue. These models are not
statistically validated. Structural equation modeling (SEM),
also commonly known as linear structural relationship
approach has the capability of testing the validity of such
hypothetical model.
Applications of ISM approach: ISM can be used at a high
level of abstraction such as needed for long range planning. It
can also be used at a more concrete level to process and
structure details related to a problem or activity such as process
design, career planning, strategic planning, engineering
problems, product design, process re-engineering, complex
technical problems, financial decision making, human
resources, competitive analysis and electronic commerce19, 20, 21,
22
. Application of Interpretive structural modeling (ISM) process
to analyze systems and problems in various fields is well
documented in literature such as:
Attri et al.16
have applied this approach for identifying and
analysing their mutual interaction of the enablers in the
implementation of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM). Attri
et al.15
have applied Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM)
approach for identifying and analysing the barriers in the
implementation of Total Productive Maintenance. Saxena et
al.23
have identified the key variables using direct as well as
indirect interrelationships amongst the variables and presented
the results of the application of ISM methodology to the case of
‘Energy conservation in the Indian cement industry. Saxena et
al.24
have used this technique to identify the key factors,
objectives and activities for energy conservation in the Indian
cement industry. They have superimposed some fuzzy
considerations to determine the hierarchy of variables and to
identify the key variable of the system. Raj et al.14
have utilised
ISM approach for analysing the mutual relationships between
the factors affecting the flexibility in FMS. Mandal and
Deshmukh25
have analyzed some important vendor selection
criteria with the use of ISM that shows the inter-relationships of
criteria and their different levels. These criteria have been
categorized depending on their driving and dependence power.
Sharma et al.26
carried out ISM to develop a hierarchy of actions
required to achieve the future objectives of waste management
in India. Singh et al.6
have utilized this technique for the
implementation of knowledge management in engineering
industries. Thakkar et al.27
has used ISM approach for
evaluating and comparing supply chain relationships,
specifically when, small and medium scale enterprise (SME) is
considered as focal company.
Ravi et al.10
used this methodology to determine the key reverse
logistics variables, which the top management should focus so
as to improve the productivity and performance of computer
hardware supply chains. Thakkar et al.28
have used ISM
approach to propose an integrated qualitative and quantitative
approach to the development of a balanced scorecard (BSC) for
a real life case company KVIC (Khadi and Village Industries
Commission, organic food sector, India). Qureshi et al.29
applied
this approach to model the key variables of logistics outsourcing
relationship between shippers and logistics service providers
(LSPs) and to study their influence on productivity and
competitiveness of the shipper company. Raj and Attri7
have
applied Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) approach for
identifying and analysing the barriers in the implementation of
5. Research Journal of Management Sciences ________________________________________________________ ISSN 2319–1171
Vol. 2(2), 3-8, February (2013) Res. J. Management Sci.
International Science Congress Association 7
Total Quality Management (TQM). Faisal et al.30
have utilized
this to present an approach to effective supply chain risk
mitigation by understanding the dynamics between various
enablers that help to mitigate risk in a supply chain. Faisal et
al.31
applied this approach to identify various information risks
that could impact a supply chain, and developed a conceptual
framework to quantify and mitigate them. Agarwal et al.9
used
this methodology to identify interrelationship among the
variables that have been identified for developing a framework
for agility improvement of case supply chain. Singh et al.32
have utilized this technique to identify and develop the
structural relationship among different factors for successful
implementation of AMTs. Jharkharia and Shankar33
used this
methodology to identify the enablers affecting the IT
enablement of supply chain and to understand the mutual
influences among these enablers. Bolanas et al.34
have utilized
this approach to improve decision making process among
executives working in different functional areas.
MICMAC analysis: Matrice d’Impacts croises-multiplication
appliqúe an classment (cross-impact matrix multiplication
applied to classification) is abbreviated as MICMAC. The
purpose of MICMAC analysis is to analyze the drive power and
dependence power of factors. MICMAC principle is based on
multiplication properties of matrices26
. It is done to identify the
key factors that drive the system in various categories. Based on
their drive power and dependence power, the factors, have been
classified into four categories i.e. autonomous factors, linkage
factors, dependent and independent factors.
Autonomous factors: These factors have weak drive power and
weak dependence power. They are relatively disconnected from
the system, with which they have few links, which may be very
strong.
Linkage factors: These factors have strong drive power as well
as strong dependence power. These factors are unstable in the
fact that any action on these factors will have an effect on others
and also a feedback effect on themselves.
Dependent factors: These factors have weak drive power but
strong dependence power.
Independent factors: These factors have strong drive power
but weak dependence power. A factor with a very strong drive
power, called the ‘key factor’ falls into the category of
independent or linkage factors.
Conclusion
Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM), provides an ordered,
directional framework for complex problems, and gives decision
makers a realistic picture of their situation and the variables
involved. The ISM process involves the identification of factors,
the definition of their interrelationships, and the imposition of
rank order and direction to illuminate complex problems from a
systems perspective. ISM process transforms unclear, poorly
articulated mental models of systems into visible and well-
defined models. These models help to find the key factor related
to problem or issue. After identification of key factor or
element, strategy may be developed for dealing issue.
ISM method is understandable to a variety of users in the
interdisciplinary groups, provides a means of integrating the
diverse perceptions of participating groups, is capable of
handling a large number of components and relationships
typical of complex systems, is heuristic in terms of assessing the
adequacy of model formulation, and leads to insights about
system behaviour. ISM is also easy to use and communicable to
a larger audience. These features of ISM approach has resulted
into wide use of this approach.
References
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6. Research Journal of Management Sciences ________________________________________________________ ISSN 2319–1171
Vol. 2(2), 3-8, February (2013) Res. J. Management Sci.
International Science Congress Association 8
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