An automated parallel genetic algorithm with parametric adaptation for distributed data analysis

Unleashing the potential of large-scale data analysis requires advanced computational methods capable of managing the immense size and complexity of distributed data. Genetic algorithms (GAs), known for their adaptability, benefit significantly from parallelization, prompting ongoing enhancements to boost performance further. This study proposes the integration of automatic termination and population sizing mechanisms into parallel GAs to augment their flexibility and effectiveness. We extend PDMS-BioHEL and PDMD-BioHEL, two parallel GA-based classifiers implemented on the Spark platform, and through extensive experimentation, demonstrate the efficacy of our approach in enhancing computational efficiency and user-friendliness. However, while these automated strategies significantly reduce the need for manual parameter tuning, thereby increasing time efficiency, they may sometimes lead to a slight reduction in final solution accuracy, particularly under complex scenario conditions. This trade-off between efficiency and accuracy is critical, especially when high precision is paramount. Our techniques enable more efficient and effective large-scale data analysis using parallel GAs, providing a robust foundation for future advancements and inviting further investigation into balancing these aspects. [Abstract copyright: © 2025. The Author(s).]