Distributed computing viewed as a team problem with constraints

The optimal distribution of the workload in a system of interconnected computer units is considered. Formulated as a team decision problem with a singular cost criterion and with equality and inequality constraints, it is shown that the problem admits always a unique piecewise linear strategy which is globally optimal. Some interesting particular cases are studied.The research reported in this paper was made possible through support from the Office of Naval Research under the Joint Services Electronics Program by Contract No. N00014-75-C-0648 and Contract No. N00014-77-C-0531 and by the National Science Foundation, Grant No. ENG-76-11824.