Expert systems are more effective than other computer applications because they can combine the knowledge of many experts, store and process information faster than humans, and are available 24/7 over networks. An expert system consists of a knowledge base containing facts and rules about a problem domain, an inference engine that applies logical processing to infer new knowledge, and a user interface for communication. For example, the Windows troubleshooting toolbar is an expert system that provides consistent answers to repetitive tasks, though it can lack common sense at times.

1. Expert SystemIn 5 Slides

2. Expert Systems are EffectiveExpert systems tend to be more effective than other computer based applications, because they:may combine the knowledge of many experts in a specific field,can store an unlimited amount of information, and work much faster than a human,are available 24 hours a day, and can be used at a distance over a network

3. Components of an Expert System:The Knowledge Base The knowledge base stores all the facts and rules about a particular problem domain. It makes these available to the inference engine in a form that it can use. The Shell or Inference Engine The inference engine is the program that locates the appropriate knowledge in the knowledge base, and infers new knowledge by applying logical processing and problem-solving strategies.The User InterfaceThe user interface is the means of communication between a user and the expert systems problem-solving processes. Must make the expert system appear ‘friendly’ to the user.

4. Expert System in Pictures

5. A Real Life ExampleWindows Operating System Trouble Shooting Toolbar Menu SystemAdvantagesProvides consistent answers for repetitive decisions, processes and tasksDisadvantagesLacks common sense on occasions