Bat algorithm for scheduling workflow applications in cloud

Workflow is one of the important aspects of cloud computing today. Cloud computing is one of the fastest growing technologies in the world. Workflows can be used in cloud as we use them in grid. Many operations in the cloud are based on workflow execution. Workflow systems are now becoming more complex and for such kind of systems efficient workflow management is important. Workflow scheduling is an important part of workflow management. Scheduling in general is NP-hard problem. To solve such kind of problems exhaustive methods cannot be used. Only non-exhaustive techniques can be used. In this paper we have used a metaheuristic approach called bat algorithm. Bat algorithm is specifically designed for optimizing hard problems. Here, bat algorithm with the help of binary bat algorithm is used for scheduling workflow in a cloud. Specifically the mapping of tasks and resources is done using this method. The optimal resources are selected such that the overall cost of the workflow is minimal.