Joint Panel Description Emerging Pervasive Systems - Research Challenges and Proposed Solutions

Summary form only given. A record of the panel discussion was not made available for publication as part of the conference proceedings. Rapid advances in computing and communications technology have made possible the transparent integration of computer-based services into the everyday lives of urban populations. Examples include modern critical infrastructure systems, such as the advanced electric power grid; and “smart” homes, which aim to interconnect advanced consumer appliances into an autonomous environment responsive to the needs of the residents. Integral to the success of pervasive systems, where graceful integration is key, is their dependability, both in terms of failure-free operation, and in terms of security. Another pivotal factor is interoperability, necessitated by the heterogeneous computing and communication foundations upon which pervasive systems are built. The ubiquity of the services provided by such systems introduces human and social aspects, which are often deemed most challenging by the engineers and computer scientists involved in the development and design of pervasive systems. The objective of this panel is to discuss approaches to overcoming these challenges, while presenting diverse perspectives on the factors contributing to the success of pervasive systems.