Expert Systems

Expert Systems

1. An expert system is a computer system which emulates the decisions made by human experts. They are designed to solve complex problems.

2. how does it work:

   • A user interface - the user-interface is designed to be simple as possible to use. it allows non -experts to question the expert system.
     • A knowledge database - this is a collection of facts and rules. This database has been created from information given by human experts.
       • An inference engine - This acts like a search engine , it searches through the knowledge database and matches the user's query.

3. Disadvantages

   • Usually only covers a narrow range of knowledge
     • A lot of effort and cost has to go into making a good expert system
       • Not as good as having human experts to hand.
         • Most expert systems are menu driven which does not deal very well with ambiguous problems
           • Does not learn from mistakes unless user feedback and human maintenance is part of its ongoing development

4. Advantages

   • Expert advice available all the time
     • Knowledge of expert staff can be captured to some extent before they move on.
       • Can be used as a training aid to increase the expertise of staff
         • Makes rational decisions without any emotional overhead
           • Does not get tired or overworked.
             • Efficient way of getting answers as it does not involve additional help staff e.g. automated help systems

5. Where are they used

   • Diagnosing a patient's illness
   • when experts aren't available
   • Chess games
   • Identifying plant and animal species
   • Diagnose faults with cars