Using an asset model for integration of agents and multimedia to provide an open service architecture

KIMSAC — Kiosk-based Integrated Multimedia Service Access for Citizens — is a project supported by EU's ACTS program (030). It aims to provide a flexible way for citizens to access intricate and complex information provided on public information kiosks. An open agent architecture is used to co-ordinated, enhance and extend service provision and the necessary information flow which characterises satisfaction of service requests. The metaphor of a personal service assistant (PSA) builds on this architecture and is used to provide citizens with flexible and efficient access to services and information to realise a client-centred design which is targeted to use. An appropriate technology for providing information services is multimedia in terms of information visualisation and user interaction. Information services are provided by agents, which will simplify the addition of new services to the kiosk. An open agent architecture is used and it requires a comprehensive asset model to support the integration of multimedia services. This paper explains how to achieve integration, from defining assets, supporting the PSA metaphor, rendering the dynamically created assets to the requirements of the agent technology to provide open services.