Abstract
In general, the aim of selling up collaborative networks is the reduction of uncertainty and the increase of competitiveness. One of the main goals is the exploitation of this collaboration networks guaranteeing the legal independence of partners on the basis of common and aligned strategic aims. Nevertheless, its practical implementation is not straight forward because of all the several dimensions it involves. This paper addresses some relevant issues in the domain of collaborative networks, in the scope of a research project based on a case study centered on a large industrial pole in Brazil and mainly established by SME.

Abstract
An important goal in schedule production orders through a manufacturing facility is to assure that the work is completed as close as possible to its due date. Work that is late creates downstream delays, while early completion can be detrimental if storage space is limited. Production planning and control manufacturing is becoming more difficult as family products increase and quantity decreases. This paper presents an ongoing information system development that aims the production planning of special test tables equipment for automobile components manufacturers. The simulated based information system will be used to support planning and schedule activities; to compare and analyze the impact of planning rescheduling; to forecast the production completion date; to detect bottlenecks and to evaluate machines performance.

Abstract
In order to develop the new industrial paradigm, it is necessary to explore a framework supported by planning and operational tools. Indeed, it becomes clear that more and more the next factories need to be increasingly more flexible, agile and knowledge-based in order to be able to adapt in real time to the continuously changing market demands, technology options and regulations, as well as accelerate the design process and optimise production. Therefore, in this paper a framework capable of supporting the factory planning will be presented based on predefined templates and product requirements. Furthermore, the Factory Templates will allow for process deployment, control and evaluation in real-time. © 2011 AISTI.

Abstract
The rapid evolution of the markets and the changing client's demands determined enterprises to adapt their business from traditional business practices to e-business, and new forms of collaboration (such as supply chain enterprises, extended enterprises or virtual enterprises) were created. Technologies such as Peer-to-Peer, Web services, intelligent agents, Workflow become core technologies supporting enterprise integration, streamlining transactions while supporting process coordination and consistency. The aim of this paper is to concisely present some relevant business integration reference models, frameworks, standards and technologies, and to propose an approach towards the development of a conceptual framework for a self-forming business networking environment based on Plug-and-Do Business paradigm.

Abstract
This paper presents the requirements for an information system supporting the cooperation in networks of enterprises. First, these networks are characterised, focusing on the variable coupling of the participating enterprises and on the consequent needs of co-operation. Departing from those needs, the concept of an information system based on an architecture of agents is presented. A generic infrastructure to implement the system is outlined, including the main interaction scenarios. The next steps of this research work end the paper.

Abstract
This paper describes the requirements analysis and system specification of an Order Promise module to be used as part of a broader Decision Support System for production and operations planning of a Virtual Enterprise. This work is part of a broader project with a particular focus on the microelectronics industry which is a good example of Virtual Enterprise, and where a quick response to the customers needs and to unpredictable changes in production conditions is considered a major factor for success. First, the analysis and specification are presented within a development framework that involves the study of organizational issues of semiconductor enterprises. The use of ontological engineering for supporting the communication and shared understanding of the system concepts is explained and a virtual enterprise ontology is outlined. Following the clarification of the concept of virtual enterprise, the generic techno-organizational requirements for the information system are derived. Finally, a specification of the global planning module and a more detailed one regarding the order promise module is presented.