Networked information technology (NIT) systems are synonymous with network-centric or net-centric systems and constitute the cornerstone of the fast-growing information age. NIT systems' field of application ranges from the traditional worldwide telecommunication systems, banking and financial transactions, on-line travel reservation systems, and remote data acquisition and control to the present-day e-commerce and distance learning to tomorrow's patient medical records, remote surgery, intelligent transportation systems, and communications and control in deep space. To date, however, the design and development of NIT systems have been ad-hoc, and lacking a scientific theory. A new text presents a scientific theory of NIT systems and logically develops the fundamental principles to help synthesize control algorithms for these systems. The algorithms are referred to as asynchronous, distributed decision-making (ADDM) algorithms, and their characteristics include correct operation, robustness, reliability, scalability, stability, and performance. The book explains through several case studies and actual research the conception, development, experimental testing, validation, and rigorous performance analysis of practical ADDM algorithms for real-world systems from a number of diverse disciplines. It concludes by exploring the benefits and impact of ADDM algorithms in the future. Topics and features: *develops a logical yet practical approach to synthesizing ADDM algorithms for NIT systems *addresses design of NIT systems using a scientific manner *essential for NIT engineers who plan to design, build, deploy, maintain, and evolve NIT systems that span virtually every aspect of human behavior *includes actual case studies to help readers develop clarity and application of key principles.
