Francisco Andrade

Bio: Francisco Andrade is an academic researcher from University of Minho. The author has contributed to research in topics: Online dispute resolution & Conflict resolution. The author has an hindex of 10, co-authored 60 publications receiving 392 citations.

Using Case-Based Reasoning and Principled Negotiation to provide decision support for dispute resolution

Abstract: The growing use of Information Technology in the commercial arena leads to an urgent need to find alternatives to traditional dispute resolution. New tools from fields such as artificial intelligence (AI) should be considered in the process of developing novel online dispute resolution (ODR) platforms, in order to make the ligation process simpler, faster and conform with the new virtual environments. In this work, we describe UMCourt, a project built around two sub-fields of AI research: Multi-agent Systems and Case-Based Reasoning, aimed at fostering the development of tools for ODR. This is then used to accomplish several objectives, from suggesting solutions to new disputes based on the observation of past similar disputes, to the improvement of the negotiation and mediation processes that may follow. The main objective of this work is to develop autonomous tools that can increase the effectiveness of the dispute resolution processes, namely by increasing the amount of meaningful information that is available for the parties.

Online dispute resolution: an artificial intelligence perspective

Abstract: Litigation in court is still the main dispute resolution mode However, given the amount and characteristics of the new disputes, mostly arising out of electronic contracting, courts are becoming slower and outdated Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) recently emerged as a set of tools and techniques, supported by technology, aimed at facilitating conflict resolution In this paper we present a critical evaluation on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) based techniques in ODR In order to fulfill this goal, we analyze a set of commercial providers (in this case twenty four) and some research projects (in this circumstance six) Supported by the results so far achieved, a new approach to deal with the problem of ODR is proposed, in which we take on some of the problems identified in the current state of the art in linking ODR and AI

Contracting agents: legal personality and representation

Abstract: The combined use of computers and telecommunications and the latest evolution in the field of Artificial Intelligence brought along new ways of contracting and of expressing will and declarations. The question is, how far we can go in considering computer intelligence and autonomy, how can we legally deal with a new form of electronic behaviour capable of autonomous action? In the field of contracting, through Intelligent Electronic Agents, there is an imperious need of analysing the question of expression of consent, and two main possibilities have been proposed: considering electronic devices as mere machines or tools, or considering electronic devices as legal persons. Another possibility that has been frequently mentioned consists in the application of the rules of agency to electronic transactions. Meanwhile, the question remains: would it possible, under a Civil Law framework, to apply the notions of "legal personhood" and "representation" to electronic agents? It is obvious that existing legal norms are not fit for such an endeavouring challenge. Yet, the virtual world exists and it requires a new but realistic legal approach on software agents, in order to enhance the use of electronic commerce in a global world.

Using BATNAs and WATNAs in online dispute resolution

Abstract: When contracting through software agents, disputes will inevitably arise. Thus there is an urgent need to find alternatives to litigation for resolving conflicts. Methods of Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) need to be considered to resolve such disputes. Having agents understanding what the dispute is about, managing all interaction between the parties and even formulating proposed solutions is an important innovation. Hence it is of the utmost relevance that the agents may be able to recognise and evaluate the facts, the position of the parties and understand all the relevant data. In many circumstances, risk management and avoidance will be a crucial point to be considered. In this sense we analyze the usefulness of a parallel concept to BATNA - Best Alternative to Negotiated Agreement, that of a WATNA - Worst Alternative to Negotiated Agreement, allowing the software agents to consider the space between BATNA and WATNA as a useful element to be taken into account when making or accepting a proposal. These software agents embodied with intelligent techniques are integrated in an architecture designed to provide support to the ODR in a system we have developed for the resolution of labour disputes - UMCourt. In this context software agents are used to compute and provide the parties with the best and worst alternative to a negotiated agreement.

Legal Security and Credibility in Agent Based Virtual Enterprises

Abstract: Recent trends in the field of Artificial Intelligence, brought along new ways of formalizing and expressing wills and declarations. Its application to Virtual Enterprises requires an analysis of the interactions among agents, frameworks and users, as well as technical and legal analysis, in order to discover the rules to be applied, to solve a particular problem under a prospective scenario. Credibility, trust and security issues must be taken under consideration, especially concerning authenticity, confidentiality, integrity and non-repudiation. In order to increase the use of agents in Virtual Enterprises, besides the analysis and research of legal solutions in the commercial arena, it is essential to assure that agents will meet requirements of credibility and trust, insuring a transparent and secure way for their commercial acting, now capable of generating legal relations. This paper shows how to construct a dynamic virtual world of complex and interacting entities or agents, in which fitness is judged by a quality of information criterion.

Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement without Giving in

Abstract: (2002). Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement without Giving in. Quality Management Journal: Vol. 9, No. 2, pp. 73-74.