The e-Cat is a research prototype of a tool for maintenance of members' profiles and competencies in a Virtual Organisation Breeding Environment. The system combines peer-to-peer approach and centralized architecture. Distribution enables members to maintain their profiles locally and to work in the off-line mode when needed. Centralized components of the system ensure coherence in the common schema of competency and support common understanding. They also prevent anonymous users from advertising incorrect data via the catalogue and allow full control over members entering or leaving the community.
