This logical and integrated approach to implementation of expert systems shows how an expert system is conceived and built using commercially available ES Shells. Taking a single coherent example, it follows the implementation team from initial evaluation of a problem through knowledge engineering steps and implementation tricks to the completion of a deliverable system. The book follows the team as they grapple with management problems, design issues, and delivery/validation. Theoretical material is introduced in the order of design problems faced by the team, providing a clear framework for all topics discussed. As the project progresses, increasingly sophisticated techniques are introduced and illustrated in detail.
Ed Payne is a successful technology entrepreneur with thirty plus years experience of software design and management. His work has paralleled the evolution of the computer industry, moving from computer-based simulation to complex databases, visualization of data, product globalization, object-oriented design and programming, artificial intelligence (knowledge management, expert systems), multimedia, and the internet. In the course of work at start-ups, executive roles have included Founder, CEO, COO, CTO, VP of Engineering and Senior Scientist. He has designed cutting-edge software products for the consumer, corporate and educational markets.
His writing in the area of technology has included "Developing Expert Systems" (John Wiley & Sons), "Integration of Traditional Simulation with Expert Systems and AI Knowledge Representation" ("Approximate Reasoning in Expert Systems", North-Holland) and numerous articles for technology publications. Mr. Payne has presented papers worldwide and guest lectured at universities including Harvard, Stanford, U. of Singapore, U. C. Berkeley and ITESM Mexico.
