This paper deals with the automation of parts of the process of setting up inter-organisational eo-operaticns by electronic means. The paper presents a high-level model of the life-cycle of a co-operation between autonomous organisations. Contracts and their possible computer representatioris are investigated with a view towards implementing the contractual match-making and contractual binding stages of the life-cycle in a dynamic and rapid fashion. The mechanisms and processes which are necessary $ these stages are to be automated are then described. Extensions to the ODPKORBA Trading Servicc are shown to be necessary if trading is to be used in automating contractual match-making and binding. These extensions are described and it is shown how they con be exploited together with interception techniques f o r setting up the link between the co-operating organisations. 'These techniques can also be used to provide a rani;e of decision-making and resource-allocation options concerning the co-operation set-up.

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