Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
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Formulate theories about the situation
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Develop and use general rules to solve a problem
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Know when to break the rules or general principles
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Solve problems quickly and efficiently
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Learn from experience
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Know what is and is not important in solving a problem
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Explain the situation and solutions of problems to others
The Knowledge Engineer and Knowledge Users
A
knowledge engineer
is a person who has training or experience in the design, development,
implementation, and maintenance of an expert system, including training or experience with
expert system shells. The
knowledge user
is the person or group who uses and benefits from
the expert system. Knowledge users do not need any previous training in computers or expert
systems.
knowledge engineer
A person who has training or
experience in the design,
development, implementation, and
maintenance of an expert system.
knowledge user
The person or group who uses and
benefits from the expert system.
Expert Systems Development Tools and Techniques
Theoretically, expert systems can be developed from any programming language. Since the
introduction of computer systems, programming languages have become easier to use, more
powerful, and increasingly able to handle specialized requirements. In the early days of expert
systems development, traditional high-level languages, including Pascal, FORTRAN, and
COBOL, were used (see Figure 11.13). LISP was one of the first special languages developed
and used for artificial intelligence applications. PROLOG was also developed for AI appli-
cations. Since the 1990s, however, other expert system products (such as shells) have become
available that remove the burden of programming, allowing nonprogrammers to develop and
benefit from the use of expert systems.
High
Figure 11.13
Expert Systems Development
Software for expert systems
development has evolved greatly
since 1980, from traditional
programming languages to expert
system shells.
Expert
systems
shells
Special
programming
languages
Traditional
programming
languages
Low
Before 1980
1980s
1990s and beyond
Expert System Shells and Products
An
expert system shell
is a collection of software packages and tools used to design, develop,
implement, and maintain expert systems. Expert system shells are available for both personal
computers and mainframe systems. Some shells are inexpensive, costing less than $500. In
addition, off-the-shelf expert system shells are complete and ready to run. The user enters
