A Generation of Moderators from Single Product to Global E-Supply

Abstract

This chapter presents the concepts and history of moderator research, covering the long journey from the first engineering moderator to recent proposals for an e-supply chains moderator. The main function of a moderator is to support a design group or team by raising individual members’ awareness of the needs and experiences of other team members. Moderators are specialist intelligent software systems which support each individual to perform his particular role from a position of strength, using his preferred methods of working while still understanding the needs of other individuals and the total team. This research addresses demanding and complex business requirements by exploiting the increasingly powerful technologies and infrastructures available for business integration.