Developing an expert system on project evaluation. Part II: Structuring the system

The work here described is the early stages of a programme to develop a series of Expert Systems (ES’s) in the management of R&D. In particular, the development of a prototype ES using a package program Crystal Ver. 2.1 is the focus together with the problems encountered. The literature had suggested that the use of such packages facilitated the process for those exploring ES’s. What was not clear from the literature or the program manuals was the limited range of problems which could be handled. The programs have a rigid structure such that unless the logic of the problem solving process matches that of the program, severe difficulties will ensue. This paper outlines the inherent structure of the programs and indicates the kind of problems which would fit. Specific problems which were encountered when trying to stretch the use of the program are explained in detail. It goes on to explain how these problems were got round using Lotus 1-2-3 which proved far more flexible in practice. This kind of understanding is essential if ES’s are to become every-day tools of R&D management.