Communication protocols for collaborative forecasting

Abstract

In this research, protocols for activities of collaborative forecasting among the partnered companies are developed in accordance of twelve scenarios derived by market types (excess supply or excess demand), types of focal company (retailer, manufacturer, or material supplier), and type of integration (integrated or disintegrated). Each of the twelve scenarios has its specific protocol in modified sequence diagram. Additionally, eleven protocol modules are developed for constructing the twelve protocols. With the protocol modules, the protocols are presented in a more structural format and are more readable. A prototype system in Java program is also developed to illustrate the applicability of the protocols. By deploying the system over internet, the twelve protocols are realized and can regulate the communications of collaborative forecasting. © 2008 International Federation for Information Processing.