Sequential Grid Computing: Models and Computational Experiments

Abstract

Through recent technical advances, multiple resources can be connected to provide a computing grid for processing computationally intensive applications. In this paper, we build on an approach termed sequential grid computing that takes advantage of idle processing power, by routing jobs that require lengthy processing through a sequence of processors. We present two models that solve the static and dynamic versions of the sequential grid scheduling problem for a single job. In both static and dynamic versions, the model maximizes a reward function tied to the probability of completion within service level agreement parameters. In the dynamic version, the static model is modified to accommodate real-time deviations from the plan. We then extend the static model to accommodate multiple jobs. Extensive computational experiments highlight situations where the models provide improvements over scheduling the job on a single processor, and the factors that affect the quality of solutions obtained.

Keywords: grid computing, stochastic shortest path, dynamic programming