GRAPHIC Illustrations of Autonomic Computing Concepts

Illustrations are general aids to communication, with those that are particularly effective becoming standard exemplars. For instance, in the computing domain, frequent reference is made to lift controllers, automated bank teller machines, and car parks. So far, there are few equivalent illustrations for autonomic systems. The purpose of this paper is to clarify the requirements for standard exemplars, propose one for consideration, and assess it against the criteria identified. The exemplar described, an autonomic printing service, aims to be GRAPHIC: general, reasonable, appealing, powerful, holistic, informative, and comprehensible.