Method and system for executing batch jobs by delegating work to independent service providers

摘要

A job management apparatus (104) for use in a batch job execution system (100) is provided. The job management apparatus (104) includes a client communications part (112) which receives a batch job from a client, an extracting part (120) which extracts a task from the batch job, and an assigning part (108) which receives signals from the service providers and delegates a task to a service provider who is capable of performing such task. The job management apparatus (104) is in communication with a job database (114) which stores the batch job after it is received from the client. At least one provider manager (124) is in communication with the job management apparatus (104) and in communication with the service providers which monitors the tasks as they are being performed on a service provider and provides status information about the task to the job management apparatus. The service providers are configured to output signals to the job management apparatus requesting work.