Towards a formal methodology for developing multi-agent applications using temporal Z

Summary form only given. This paper presents a formal approach where we adopt a formal specification language which allows us to cover individual agent aspects (knowledge, goals, roles, ...) as well as collective aspects of a multiagent application in terms of coordination protocols, organization structure and planning activities. In this context, we propose a methodology based on stepwise refinements allowing to develop a design specification starting from an abstract requirements specification. We illustrate our approach by developing a multiagent solution for the pursuit problem.