Metaproject analysis: Multiagent virtual project networks for strategic decisions in preplanning

The paper describes metaproject analysis, a new scenario method. It is a systemic methodological aid for decision making in midterm and long-term strategic planning. It uses advanced techniques of modelling and simulating stochastic project-planning networks. This methodological approach describes the evolution from present to future (towards the achievement of a preestablished goal, for example the market introduction of a new public service or system) as a multiagent and cooperative virtual project plan (metaproject). Such a metaproject must be formally translated into a metaproject network (scenario), assembling the significant activities of all the agents involved, which are supposedly cooperating. An example case study related to telecommunications and a home-banking service is presented.