Experiments with experts developing simple expert systems

It has been suggested that current expert systems technology enables experts to develop their own small systems. This hypothesis is investigated by observing four experts in different fields as they develop their own prototype expert systems. The four experts had little previous experience of expert systems and tackled the projects as part of a postgraduate course using a readily available expert systems shell. The results of the four cases, which are described in detail, vary considerably. One resulted in a successful prototype which is being further developed into an operational system. Another highlighted the need for technical assistance at several stages of the development process. It is concluded that there is considerable potential for experts to develop their own simple systems but some will need support in using shells and structuring their knowledge.