Symmetric Mapping: An architectural pattern for resource supply in grids and clouds

This paper presents the symmetric mapping pattern, an architectural pattern for the design of resource supply systems. The focus of symmetric mapping is on separation of concerns for cost-effective resource allocation. It divides resource supply in three functions: (1) Users and providers match and engage in resource supply agreements, (2) users place tasks on subscribed resource containers, and (3) providers place supplied resource containers on physical resources. The pattern relies on stakeholders to act for their own interest. The efficiency of the whole system is determined by the degree of freedom left to the three functions and the efficiency of the associated decision systems. We propose a formalism of the symmetric mapping pattern, we observe to what extend existing grid and cloud systems follow it, and we propose elements of an original implementation.