COTS Evaluation Supported by Knowledge Bases

Selection of Commercial-off-The-Shelf (COTS) software products is a knowledge-intensive process. In this paper, we show how knowledge bases can be used to facilitate the COTS selection process. We propose a conceptual model to support decision makers during the evaluation procedures. We then describe how this model is implemented using agent technologies supported by two knowledge bases (KB): the COTS KB and the methods KB. The model relies on group-decision making and facilitated stakeholder negotiations during the selection process. It employs hybrid techniques, such as Bayesian Belief Networks and Game Theory, to address different challenges throughout the process. In addition, the paper also describes how the COTS knowledge base can be used at three levels of usage: global (over the internet), limited (between limited number of organizations) and local (within a single organization).