Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 6.1 displays an example of a generic Grid value network based on the
clusters and market players described above. The flows between market actors form
a set of sub-clusters or mini-networks which are led by a market actor that bundles
the offerings of several players together and joins them with the offerings of other
players to form a complete solution.
Fig. 6.1:
A general Grid value network
A general Grid value network consists of the market players from utility computing,
VAS, and telco clusters. In this example the system integrator and solution provider
(VAS cluster) have important roles to bundle the solution and to coordinate the
flows among the market players. The system integrator is in charge of integrating
the application, Grid middleware and Grid resources (received from the market
players of utility computing cluster) are needed to build the solution. The system
integrator provides this solution (in forms of software and services) to the solution
provider. The solution provider completes the solution by acquiring connectivity
from the telco cluster, and provides the solution for the end user. The relationship
between solution provider and end user is interactive, and the customer's require-
ments play an important role in the solution definition. The solution provider also
provides different kinds of consultancy services for the end user. The end user makes
payment only to the solution provider but it is important to note that the price it pays
at the point of delivery includes shares due to all the members of the value chain.
