Analysis of a stochastic model for crowdsourcing using map arrivals and phase type services

Abstract

In this paper, we model crowdsourcing using MAP for Type 1 arrivals who may opt to serve the other (Poisson type) arrivals. Such models are useful in service sectors wherein one type of customers visit the store to buy items while the other type may place orders over some medium such as internet and phone, and expects them to be delivered. The store management may use the (willing) in-store customers as couriers to "serve" the other type of customers. We study the model using matrix-analytic methods and discuss some qualitative illustrative examples.