Complex systems are usually difficult to design and control. There are several particular methods for coping with complexity, but there is no general approach to build complex systems. In this book I propose a methodology to aid engineers in the design and control of complex systems. This is based on the description of systems as self-organizing. Starting from the agent metaphor, the methodology proposes a conceptual framework and a series of steps to follow to find proper mechanisms that will promote elements to find solutions by actively interacting among themselves.

This book presents the state-of-the-art in successfully engineered self-organizing systems. It goes further, too, to examine ways to balance design and self-organization in the context of applications. As demonstrated throughout, finding this balance helps to deal with diverse practical challenges. The case studies described illustrate the richness of the topic and provide guidance on its more intricate areas.

Complex systems are usually difficult to design and control. There are several particular methods for coping with complexity, but there is no general approach to build complex systems. In this book I propose a methodology to aid engineers in the design and control of complex systems. This is based on the description of systems as self-organizing. Starting from the agent metaphor, the methodology proposes a conceptual framework and a series of steps to follow to find proper mechanisms that will promote elements to find solutions by actively interacting among themselves. A general introduction to complex thinking is given, while practical notions of complexity and self-organization are put forward. To illustrate the methodology, I present three case studies. Self- organizing traffic light controllers are proposed and studied with multi-agent simulations, outperforming traditional methods. Methods for improving communication within self-organizing bureaucracies are advanced. Finally, requirements for self- organizing artifacts in an ambient intelligence scenario are discussed. Philosophical implications of the conceptual framework are also put forward.

This book places everyday talk and role-modelling interactions at the forefront of an alternative change-leadership agenda, and introduces a number of practical approaches to help line managers and organizational specialists deliver this agenda more successfully. It is essential reading for organizational practitioners at all levels.

Covering the key functional areas of LTE Self-Organising Networks (SON), this book introduces the topic at an advanced level before examining the state-of-the-art concepts. The required background on LTE network scenarios, technologies and general SON concepts is first given to allow readers with basic knowledge of mobile networks to understand the detailed discussion of key SON functional areas (self-configuration, -optimisation, -healing). Later, the book provides details and references for advanced readers familiar with LTE and SON, including the latest status of 3GPP standardisation. Based on the defined next generation mobile networks (NGMN) and 3GPP SON use cases, the book elaborates to give the full picture of a SON-enabled system including its enabling technologies, architecture and operation. ”Heterogeneous networks” including different cell hierarchy levels and multiple radio access technologies as a new driver for SON are also discussed. Introduces the functional areas of LTE SON (self-optimisation, -configuration and –healing) and its standardisation, also giving NGMN and 3GPP use cases Explains the drivers, requirements, challenges, enabling technologies and architectures for a SON-enabled system Covers multi-technology (2G/3G) aspects as well as core network and end-to-end operational aspects Written by experts who have been contributing to the development and standardisation of the LTE self-organising networks concept since its inception Examines the impact of new network architectures (“Heterogeneous Networks”) to network operation, for example multiple cell layers and radio access technologies

This book describes the emerging field of self-organizing, multicore, distributed and real-time embedded systems. Self ‐organization of both hardware and software can be a key technique to handle the growing complexity of modern computing systems. Distributed systems running hundreds of tasks on dozens of processors, each equipped with multiple cores, requires self‐organization principles to ensure efficient and reliable operation. This book addresses various, so-called Self‐X features such as self-configuration, self‐optimization, self‐adaptation, self‐healing and self‐protection.